Will Finland become a new front in the Ukraine war? US and Finland are reportedly negotiating an agreement that allows America to use Finnish military bases. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Finland the new front in the Ukraine war?

There are no signs that the fighting in Ukraine will end soon. New estimated casualty numbers from Russia's winter offensive in Ukraine have been released by the White House. It claims that more than 100,000 casualties have been reported in Moscow since December, claiming that this is a significant quantity and an important indicator.

White House: 20,000 Russian soldiers killed in ongoing conflict

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia is getting worse. The Ukrainian military claims to have shot down 15 of the 18 missiles fired by Russia on Monday morning when air defence systems were activated to protect the cave area.

War at Ukraine: Russia launches another barrage of strikes, most repelled by Ukraine

Pope Francis, on his three-day visit to Hungary, headed a big outdoor Mass where he urged people to not close the door on migrants and those who are "foreign or unlike us," contrary to the anti-immigrant policies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Over 50,000 people gathered in and around the square behind Budapest's iconic neo-gothic parliament building to see the ope on the last day of his visit.

"I really like the holy mass and the speech he gave, and I felt that he meant many parts specifically for us in his speech,” one of the mass attendees said.

Francis said that if Hungarians wanted to follow Jesus, they will have to shun "the closed doors of our individualism amid a society of growing isolation; the closed doors of our indifference towards the underprivileged and those who suffer; the doors we close towards those who are foreign or unlike us, towards migrants or the poor".&nbsp;

He said that migrants escaping poverty should also be welcomed because they can culturally enrich the host countries and also boost Europe's declining populations.

<h2>'Vatican involved in secret peace mission to end conflict between Russia and Ukraine': Pope</h2>

On Sunday, Pope Francis said that Vatican is involved in a peace mission aiming to end the conflict, tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

"There is a mission in course now but it is not yet public. When it is public, I will reveal it," the pope told reporters during a flight home after his visit to Hungary.

"I think that peace is always made by opening channels. You can never achieve peace through closure. ... This is not easy."

He also spoke about the situation in Ukraine with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and with Metropolitan (bishop) Hilarion, a representative of the Russian Orthodox Church in Budapest.

"In these meetings, we did not just talk about Little Red Riding Hood. We spoke of all these things. Everyone is interested in the road to peace," he said.

Pope had previously said that he wanted to visit Kyiv and Moscow on a peace mission.

On Thursday, Ukraine Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal met the pope at the Vatican and said that he had discussed a "peace formula" put forward by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

"The Holy See is willing to do this (help repatriate the children) because it is the right thing," Francis said on the plane. "All human gestures help but gestures of cruelty don't help. We have to do all that is humanly possible".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis, on his three-day visit to Hungary, headed a big outdoor Mass where he urged people to not close the door on migrants and those who are "foreign or unlike us," contrary to the anti-immigrant policies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Pope Francis, on his three-day visit to Hungary, headed a big outdoor Mass where he urged people to not close the door on migrants and those who are "foreign or unlike us," contrary to the anti-immigrant policies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Over 50,000 people gathered in and around the square behind Budapest's iconic neo-gothic parliament building to see the ope on the last day of his visit. "I really like the holy mass and the speech he gave, and I felt that he meant many parts specifically for us in his speech,” one of the mass attendees said. Francis said that if Hungarians wanted to follow Jesus, they will have to shun "the closed doors of our individualism amid a society of growing isolation; the closed doors of our indifference towards the underprivileged and those who suffer; the doors we close towards those who are foreign or unlike us, towards migrants or the poor". He said that migrants escaping poverty should also be welcomed because they can culturally enrich the host countries and also boost Europe's declining populations. 'Vatican involved in secret peace mission to end conflict between Russia and Ukraine': Pope On Sunday, Pope Francis said that Vatican is involved in a peace mission aiming to end the conflict, tensions between Russia and Ukraine. "There is a mission in course now but it is not yet public. When it is public, I will reveal it," the pope told reporters during a flight home after his visit to Hungary. "I think that peace is always made by opening channels. You can never achieve peace through closure. ... This is not easy." He also spoke about the situation in Ukraine with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and with Metropolitan (bishop) Hilarion, a representative of the Russian Orthodox Church in Budapest. "In these meetings, we did not just talk about Little Red Riding Hood. We spoke of all these things. Everyone is interested in the road to peace," he said. Pope had previously said that he wanted to visit Kyiv and Moscow on a peace mission. On Thursday, Ukraine Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal met the pope at the Vatican and said that he had discussed a "peace formula" put forward by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. "The Holy See is willing to do this (help repatriate the children) because it is the right thing," Francis said on the plane. "All human gestures help but gestures of cruelty don't help. We have to do all that is humanly possible". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pope Francis urges Hungarians to not close door on migrants

Ukraine's defence ministry tweeted a controversial meme on Sunday. The tweet has hurt the religious sentiments of Indians. Many have labelled it Hinduphobic. The meme has now been taken down, but Indians are demanding an apology from Ukraine. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Indians call out Ukraine for its tweet | Meme hurt religious sentiments of Indians

The United States of America has estimated that Russia's military has suffered 100,000 casualties in the last five months. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby has said that the figures are based on US intelligence estimates which included more than 20,000 russians killed in action.

War at Ukraine: White house estimates Russian troop losses

After a three-day visit to Hungary, Pope Francis said on his way back to Rome that the Vatican is engaged in a peace mission regarding the conflict in Ukraine. Pope Francis told reporters that, despite the fact that he is unable to do so at this time, he is prepared to do all it takes to put an end to the bloodshed in the Santa City of Ukraine.

Pope Francis: Vatican involved in secret Ukraine peace mission

Ukrainian air defences early Monday (May 1) shot down 15 out of 18 missiles launched by Russian forces as Moscow intensifies its offensive. Taking to Telegram, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, said, "Around 2:30 am (1130 GMT), the Russian invaders attacked Ukraine from strategic aviation planes," the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Kyiv's city officials, meanwhile, said that all missiles directed at the capital city were destroyed in what they said was the second attack on the city in three days. The city administration posted on Telegram that there were no casualties among the civilian population and no destruction of residential facilities or infrastructure.&nbsp;

Air defence systems were also called into action to shield the Kyiv region.

Russia also launched missiles at other Ukrainian regions overnight, including on Dnipropetrovsk and Mykola Lukashuk, the head of the Dnipro region council, said. Air defence crews shot down seven missiles, while 25 people needed medical help. The eastern Ukrainian city of Pavlohrad was struck twice overnight, Reuters reported.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-will-launch-counteroffensive-without-western-fighter-aircraft-says-zelensky-587540">Ukraine will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky</a>

Monday's missile strikes come after a Ukrainian strike on a Russian border village of Suzemka killed four people and injured two others on Saturday. According to local governor Alexander Bogomaz, the Ukrainian shelling hit Suzemka twice overnight and Russian air defence had "shot down several shells."

Bogomaz said that one shell hit a residential house sparking a fire and that two more houses were damaged, adding the village declared a state of emergency.&nbsp;

"Work is continuing on the removal of rubble. In the areas where operational measures have been completed, a damage assessment commission has begun working," the local governor said.&nbsp;

Last Friday (April 28), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-missile-strikes-kill-26-including-five-children-zelensky-vows-response-587174">Russian forces launched missile strikes across Ukraine</a>, killing 26 people including five children. These were the first large-scale air strikes in war-torn

Ukraine in nearly two months, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowing a response.&nbsp;

And a day later, authorities said a huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Crimea's Sevastopol after a drone strike.&nbsp;

At present, most of the fighting in Ukraine is in the east and southern regions. The Ukrainian government said on Sunday that its forces were holding onto parts of Bakhmut and Russia was unable to take control of the city.&nbsp;

"Fierce fighting continues in the city of Bakhmut. The enemy is unable to take control over the city, despite throwing all its forces into the battle and having some success," Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said on Telegram.&nbsp;

"The defence of Bakhmut is coping with its military tasks," Malyar.

Her remarks come after Russia's Defence Ministry said that its forces had taken four blocks in western Bakhmut, but this claim could not be verified, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian air defences early Monday (May 1) shot down 15 out of 18 missiles launched by Russian forces as Moscow intensifies its offensive. Taking to Telegram, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, said, "Around 2:30 am (1130 GMT), the Russian invaders attacked Ukraine from strategic aviation planes," the news agency Reuters reported.

Ukrainian air defences early Monday (May 1) shot down 15 out of 18 missiles launched by Russian forces as Moscow intensifies its offensive. Taking to Telegram, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, said, "Around 2:30 am (1130 GMT), the Russian invaders attacked Ukraine from strategic aviation planes," the news agency Reuters reported. Kyiv's city officials, meanwhile, said that all missiles directed at the capital city were destroyed in what they said was the second attack on the city in three days. The city administration posted on Telegram that there were no casualties among the civilian population and no destruction of residential facilities or infrastructure. Air defence systems were also called into action to shield the Kyiv region. Russia also launched missiles at other Ukrainian regions overnight, including on Dnipropetrovsk and Mykola Lukashuk, the head of the Dnipro region council, said. Air defence crews shot down seven missiles, while 25 people needed medical help. The eastern Ukrainian city of Pavlohrad was struck twice overnight, Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Ukraine will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky Monday's missile strikes come after a Ukrainian strike on a Russian border village of Suzemka killed four people and injured two others on Saturday. According to local governor Alexander Bogomaz, the Ukrainian shelling hit Suzemka twice overnight and Russian air defence had "shot down several shells." Bogomaz said that one shell hit a residential house sparking a fire and that two more houses were damaged, adding the village declared a state of emergency. "Work is continuing on the removal of rubble. In the areas where operational measures have been completed, a damage assessment commission has begun working," the local governor said. Last Friday (April 28), Russian forces launched missile strikes across Ukraine, killing 26 people including five children. These were the first large-scale air strikes in war-torn Ukraine in nearly two months, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowing a response. And a day later, authorities said a huge fire broke out at a fuel depot in Crimea's Sevastopol after a drone strike. At present, most of the fighting in Ukraine is in the east and southern regions. The Ukrainian government said on Sunday that its forces were holding onto parts of Bakhmut and Russia was unable to take control of the city. "Fierce fighting continues in the city of Bakhmut. The enemy is unable to take control over the city, despite throwing all its forces into the battle and having some success," Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said on Telegram. "The defence of Bakhmut is coping with its military tasks," Malyar. Her remarks come after Russia's Defence Ministry said that its forces had taken four blocks in western Bakhmut, but this claim could not be verified, Reuters reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Ukrainian air defences shoot down 15 of 18 Russian missiles launched

War at Ukraine: 15 of 18 Russian strikes destroyed

The war in Ukraine began with a promise. A promise from Russia that the special operation would end in weeks. Weeks, turned into months, months turned into a year. Now fourteen months since the day the conflict started, Ukraine is preparing a spring counter-offensive, even though western F-16 jets have still not been deployed.

War at Ukraine: Ukraine readies for counter-offensive in the absence of Western fighter jets

China is in damage control mode. Xi Jinping spoke to Ukraine's Zelensky on phone days after China's ambassador to France questioned Ukraine's sovereignty. China is now planning to send diplomats to Ukraine to put together a peace plan. Vikram Chandra tells you more.

China's Xi dials Zelensky, attempts damage control in Europe | This World

There have been many questions over whether Pakistan is sending arms and ammunition to Ukraine in the war against Russia. A Ukrainian Commander had even claimed that the Pakistani weapon that it received were of substandard quality.

Pakistan denies arming Ukrainian forces, says 'We follow strict path of neutrality' | WION

Ukraine has formally launched a protest with its ally Poland for an import ban enforced in the country's agricultural produce. The ban comes as local Polish farmers have raised some serious objections to the influx of Ukrainian produce that reportedly resulted in a decline in prices.

Ukraine protests Poland ban on import, Kyiv calls import ban 'unacceptable' | World News | WION

Does China's Ambassador to France Lu Shay, consider Crimea a part of Ukraine?

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that they will launch its counter-offensive against the armed forces of Russia even though they have not received Western fighter aircraft.

On multiple occasions, Zelensky had appealed to widen the Western military aid's scope for Ukraine.

"Frankly speaking, it would help us a lot. But we also understand that we can't drag it (the counteroffensive) out, which is why we'll start before we receive F-16s or other models. But to calm Russia down with the fact that we'd still need a couple of months to train on the aircraft and only then we'd start (a counteroffensive). No, this won't happen. We'll start and go forward, while at the same time, simultaneously, I think this is very important (to receive western fighter aircraft)," he said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-would-have-fought-till-death-had-russians-attacked-kyiv-headquarters-587440">Zelensky says would have fought till death had Russians attacked Kyiv headquarters</a>

While addressing the Scandinavian journalists in Kyiv, Zelensky said that there were nations that had F-16 and other "Western kind aircraft" which were "ready to help us".

"We are capable of putting an end to this war. However, not everything is going to happen at once tomorrow. We need time to train, but we have an understanding how to do this faster, and we understand the logistics behind it. And most importantly, as of today, there are countries that have F-16s or other 'western kind aircraft' who want to, and who are ready to help us,” he stated.

However, the Ukrainian leader did not specify which countries he was referring to. The Ukrainian air force only owns Soviet-era fighter aircraft.

Earlier, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was pressed on this point by Zelensky at a meeting held in Kyiv on April 20 and said that the military alliance needed to open its doors for membership of Ukraine.

WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says it's 'ready' for counteroffensive

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After facing a Russian winter as well as spring offensive which has made small advances in the east, Ukraine now plans to recapture the land in its east and south in a counteroffensive in the weeks or months ahead.

In an earlier interview, Zelensky had claimed that he carries a pistol and would have fought with the Russian forces to death if they had stormed his Kyiv headquarters when the war began.

"I know how to shoot. Could you imagine (a headline like) 'The President of Ukraine is taken captive by Russians?' This is a disgrace. I believe this would be a disgrace," he said while speaking to the 1+1 television channel.

<main>
<section>
(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that they will launch its counter-offensive against the armed forces of Russia even though they have not received Western fighter aircraft.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday said that they will launch its counter-offensive against the armed forces of Russia even though they have not received Western fighter aircraft. On multiple occasions, Zelensky had appealed to widen the Western military aid's scope for Ukraine. "Frankly speaking, it would help us a lot. But we also understand that we can't drag it (the counteroffensive) out, which is why we'll start before we receive F-16s or other models. But to calm Russia down with the fact that we'd still need a couple of months to train on the aircraft and only then we'd start (a counteroffensive). No, this won't happen. We'll start and go forward, while at the same time, simultaneously, I think this is very important (to receive western fighter aircraft)," he said. ALSO READ | Zelensky says would have fought till death had Russians attacked Kyiv headquarters While addressing the Scandinavian journalists in Kyiv, Zelensky said that there were nations that had F-16 and other "Western kind aircraft" which were "ready to help us". "We are capable of putting an end to this war. However, not everything is going to happen at once tomorrow. We need time to train, but we have an understanding how to do this faster, and we understand the logistics behind it. And most importantly, as of today, there are countries that have F-16s or other 'western kind aircraft' who want to, and who are ready to help us,” he stated. However, the Ukrainian leader did not specify which countries he was referring to. The Ukrainian air force only owns Soviet-era fighter aircraft. Earlier, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was pressed on this point by Zelensky at a meeting held in Kyiv on April 20 and said that the military alliance needed to open its doors for membership of Ukraine. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says it's 'ready' for counteroffensive After facing a Russian winter as well as spring offensive which has made small advances in the east, Ukraine now plans to recapture the land in its east and south in a counteroffensive in the weeks or months ahead. In an earlier interview, Zelensky had claimed that he carries a pistol and would have fought with the Russian forces to death if they had stormed his Kyiv headquarters when the war began. "I know how to shoot. Could you imagine (a headline like) 'The President of Ukraine is taken captive by Russians?' This is a disgrace. I believe this would be a disgrace," he said while speaking to the 1+1 television channel. (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 will launch counteroffensive without Western fighter aircraft, says Zelensky

A tweet posted by Defence of Ukraine’s official account seemingly depicting Indian goddess Kali morphed over a blast fume outraged netizens in India who have deemed it to be offensive and “Hinduphobic”.

“Work of art,” the official Twitter account posted the picture on Sunday showing the Indian goddess having an <a name="_Hlk133751169">upskirt moment </a>similar to Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe.

The Indian users were livid with Ukraine for mocking the Hindu culture for the caricaturish depiction as it bore a resemblance to the revered Hindu deity with its blue skin colour, tongue sticking out pose and a wreath of skulls around the neck.

<img alt="mocking Hindu deity " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6eb59aa-8e6c-46db-acf9-9c7f4a3c0d41" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ukriane.png" />

However, minutes after posting the picture, the tweet received a massive backlash, forcing the Ministry of Defence to delete the Twitter post.

“This is why you guys are not getting any support from India. And getting your ass kicked,” a twitter user who goes by the name Mohan Sinha replied to the tweet.

“I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount,” another one, Sudhanshu Singh, tweeted.

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Shame on you for making such cartoons and insulting our faith! Utterly disgusting attempt
— Sanskar Rao🇮🇳 (@SanskarBarot) <a href="https://twitter.com/SanskarBarot/status/1652485616863682560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“Shame on you for making such cartoons and insulting our faith! Utterly disgusting attempt,” tweeted another user.

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I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount.…
— Sudhanshu Singh (@sudhansh6359) <a href="https://twitter.com/sudhansh6359/status/1652533244896907264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Many angry Twitter users in India started tagging the social platform’s CEO Elon Musk and India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar urging them to take strict action. 
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A tweet posted by Defence of Ukraine’s official account seemingly depicting Indian goddess Kali morphed over a blast fume outraged netizens in India who have deemed it to be offensive and “Hinduphobic”.

A tweet posted by Defence of Ukraine’s official account seemingly depicting Indian goddess Kali morphed over a blast fume outraged netizens in India who have deemed it to be offensive and “Hinduphobic”. “Work of art,” the official Twitter account posted the picture on Sunday showing the Indian goddess having an upskirt moment similar to Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe. The Indian users were livid with Ukraine for mocking the Hindu culture for the caricaturish depiction as it bore a resemblance to the revered Hindu deity with its blue skin colour, tongue sticking out pose and a wreath of skulls around the neck. However, minutes after posting the picture, the tweet received a massive backlash, forcing the Ministry of Defence to delete the Twitter post. “This is why you guys are not getting any support from India. And getting your ass kicked,” a twitter user who goes by the name Mohan Sinha replied to the tweet. “I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount,” another one, Sudhanshu Singh, tweeted. Shame on you for making such cartoons and insulting our faith! Utterly disgusting attempt — Sanskar Rao🇮🇳 (@SanskarBarot) April 30, 2023 × “Shame on you for making such cartoons and insulting our faith! Utterly disgusting attempt,” tweeted another user. I am absolutely appalled to see the Ukrainian defence handle mocking Maa Kali, a revered Hindu goddess. This is a gross display of insensitivity and ignorance. I urge them to take down the offensive content and issue an apology. Respect for all religions and beliefs is paramount.… — Sudhanshu Singh (@sudhansh6359) April 30, 2023 × Many angry Twitter users in India started tagging the social platform’s CEO Elon Musk and India’s foreign minister S Jaishankar urging them to take strict action. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine defence ministry’s tweet showing Hindu Goddess Kali in awkward pose sparks row in India

The European Commission said Friday that it has secured an 'in principle' agreement to lift the ban on the transit of Ukrainian grain via five EU member nations.

This comes after concerns were raised earlier by Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia that grain from Ukraine intended for export to other nations had wound up in their domestic markets, driving down prices for local farmers.

Grain from Ukraine that couldn't be shipped through the Black Sea ports due to Russia's invasion was routed through the five nations.&nbsp;Millions of tonnes of grain were then stuck in bottlenecks in the nations bordering Ukraine, forcing local farmers to compete with a flood of cheap Ukrainian imports that farmers said the supply and demand were skewed which led to the chaos.

According to a tweet from Valdis Dombrovskis, vice president of the European Commission, the EU executive has agreed in principle with the five to address concerns of both farmers in neighbouring EU countries and Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/meet-british-doctor-john-mcfall-worlds-first-para-astronaut-587168">Meet British doctor John McFall, world's first para-astronaut</a>

He claimed that safeguard measures for four products—wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed—were included in the agreement. However, he did not reveal anything further.

According to Dombrovskis, the agreement also includes an assistance package for regional farmers worth 100 million euros ($110.25 million).

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky said that he had spoken to Charles Michel, the head of the European Council, on Friday to express his worries with what he called a detrimental prohibition on the export of agricultural goods.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-iran-to-reopen-embassies-in-each-others-capitals-within-days-587162">Saudi Arabia, Iran to reopen embassies in each other's capitals 'within days'</a>

"This gives the Kremlin dangerous hope, the hope that in our common European home someone's wrong decisions can prevail over common interests," he said in a video address.

Watch | After Russia's winter assault, Ukraine prepares for summer attack

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As per the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen the pact "preserves both Ukraine's exports capacity so it can continue feeding the world, and our farmers' livelihoods."&nbsp;

Former Russian president and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Medvedev, said last Sunday that if the G7 decided to impose export restrictions on Russia, Moscow would retaliate by cancelling the Black Sea Grain Agreement, which permits crucial grain shipments from Ukraine.

"This idea from the idiots at the G7 about a total ban of exports to our country by default is beautiful in that it implies a reciprocal ban on imports from our country, including categories of goods that are the most sensitive for the G7," Medvedev said in a post on his Telegram channel.

According to last week's report by the Japanese Kyodo news agency, which cited sources within the Japanese government, the Group of Seven (G7) nations are proposing a blanket ban on exports to Russia.

Russia has threatened on many occasions to withdraw from the grain agreement, which is set to expire on 18 May. "In such a case, the grain deal - and many other things that they need - will end for them," he added.

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The European Commission said Friday that it has secured an 'in principle' agreement to lift the ban on the transit of Ukrainian grain via five EU member nations.

The European Commission said Friday that it has secured an 'in principle' agreement to lift the ban on the transit of Ukrainian grain via five EU member nations. This comes after concerns were raised earlier by Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia that grain from Ukraine intended for export to other nations had wound up in their domestic markets, driving down prices for local farmers. Grain from Ukraine that couldn't be shipped through the Black Sea ports due to Russia's invasion was routed through the five nations. Millions of tonnes of grain were then stuck in bottlenecks in the nations bordering Ukraine, forcing local farmers to compete with a flood of cheap Ukrainian imports that farmers said the supply and demand were skewed which led to the chaos. According to a tweet from Valdis Dombrovskis, vice president of the European Commission, the EU executive has agreed in principle with the five to address concerns of both farmers in neighbouring EU countries and Ukraine. Also Read | Meet British doctor John McFall, world's first para-astronaut He claimed that safeguard measures for four products—wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed—were included in the agreement. However, he did not reveal anything further. According to Dombrovskis, the agreement also includes an assistance package for regional farmers worth 100 million euros ($110.25 million). Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky said that he had spoken to Charles Michel, the head of the European Council, on Friday to express his worries with what he called a detrimental prohibition on the export of agricultural goods. Also Read | Saudi Arabia, Iran to reopen embassies in each other's capitals 'within days' "This gives the Kremlin dangerous hope, the hope that in our common European home someone's wrong decisions can prevail over common interests," he said in a video address. Watch | After Russia's winter assault, Ukraine prepares for summer attack × As per the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen the pact "preserves both Ukraine's exports capacity so it can continue feeding the world, and our farmers' livelihoods." Former Russian president and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Medvedev, said last Sunday that if the G7 decided to impose export restrictions on Russia, Moscow would retaliate by cancelling the Black Sea Grain Agreement, which permits crucial grain shipments from Ukraine. "This idea from the idiots at the G7 about a total ban of exports to our country by default is beautiful in that it implies a reciprocal ban on imports from our country, including categories of goods that are the most sensitive for the G7," Medvedev said in a post on his Telegram channel. According to last week's report by the Japanese Kyodo news agency, which cited sources within the Japanese government, the Group of Seven (G7) nations are proposing a blanket ban on exports to Russia. Russia has threatened on many occasions to withdraw from the grain agreement, which is set to expire on 18 May. "In such a case, the grain deal - and many other things that they need - will end for them," he added. 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.

EU nations reach deal 'in principle' to transit grain from Ukraine

On Tech It Out, we keep showing how countries around the world are improving their drone technologies to take on rivals. In this video, we focus on Russia. Watch this story and see what Moscow is up to.

Russia to target Ukraine with new combat drone?

Columbian Peninsula is about 27,000 square kilometers and it merges into the Black sea. A year into the war, the region has come and again become a battleground, peninsula, of course reminds Ukraine of the land that it lost to Russian annexation in 2014.

Ukraine's possible counteroffensive, holds military drills in Zaporizhzhia | World News | WION

Fire broke out at a fuel depot in the Crimean port of Sevastopol after Ukraine reportedly launched a drone strike in the region. The area was hit by a series of drone attack, following the Kremlin's Ukraine offensive which was launched last year.

Huge fire breaks out at Crimea fuel depot, tank in Sevastopol catches fire | World news | WION

Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi made a surprise visit to Ukraine during this time, nearly a year ago when the war had just begun. Reflecting on the visit, Pelosi in an interview with The Associated Press conceded that she and her delegation thought they could die in the warzone.&nbsp;

“We never feared about it, but we thought we could die because we’re visiting a serious, serious war zone.&nbsp;We had great protection, but nonetheless, a war -&nbsp;theater of war," said Pelosi.&nbsp;

Pelosi was the highest-ranking elected US official to visit Kyiv at the time. Alongside her, democratic representatives, Barbara Lee,&nbsp;Jason Crow, Gregory Meeks, Jim McGovern,&nbsp;Adam Schiff and Bill Keating also made their way to the war-torn country.&nbsp;

The Democrat leader lauded the Ukrainian&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky who stood outside in the street to meet her, instead of some protected space.&nbsp;

“The courage of the president in greeting us on the street rather than us just meeting him in his office was yet again another symbol of the courage of the people of Ukraine," she added.&nbsp;

Even at the time, Pelosi told Zelensky that her visit to Kyiv was a way to say thank you.&nbsp;

"We believe that we are visiting you to say thank you for your fight for freedom. We are on a frontier of freedom and your fight is a fight for everyone. Our commitment is to be there for you until the fight is done," she said back then.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-meets-ukraine-president-zelensky-in-kyiv-475776">WATCH |&nbsp;US House speaker Nancy Pelosi meets Ukraine President Zelensky in Kyiv</a>

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<h2>Congress to back Ukraine: Pelosi</h2>

Speaking about support for Ukraine, Pelosi said she was confident that despite Republicans casting aspersions over the release of billions of grants, the Congress will continue to back Kyiv against Moscow.&nbsp;

“Support for Ukraine has been bipartisan and bicameral, in both houses of Congress by both parties, and the American people support democracy in Ukraine,” Pelosi told AP. “I believe that we will continue to support as long as we need to support democracy... as long as it takes to win.”

In what was a rare occurrence, pelosi also lauded newly elected Speaker Kevin McCarthy for hosting Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen at the&nbsp;Ronald Reagan Presidential Library earlier this month.&nbsp;

“That was really quite a message and quite an optic to be there. And so I salute what he did,” she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-stands-firmly-with-ukraine-us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-visits-kyiv-meets-ukraines-president-475375">ALSO READ |&nbsp;'America stands firmly with Ukraine': US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visits Kyiv, meets President Zelensky</a>

Apart from visiting Ukraine, Pelosi's whirlwind trip to Taiwan was the highlight of her last year in the office. She visited the island in August and immediately after, China began a mammoth military exercise, aimed at sending a strong message. Speaking about Beijing's sharp rebuke, Pelosi termed it a 'cowardly' act.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi made a surprise visit to Ukraine during this time, nearly a year ago when the war had just begun. Reflecting on the visit, Pelosi in an interview with The Associated Press conceded that she and her delegation thought they could die in the warzone.

Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi made a surprise visit to Ukraine during this time, nearly a year ago when the war had just begun. Reflecting on the visit, Pelosi in an interview with The Associated Press conceded that she and her delegation thought they could die in the warzone. “We never feared about it, but we thought we could die because we’re visiting a serious, serious war zone. We had great protection, but nonetheless, a war - theater of war," said Pelosi. Pelosi was the highest-ranking elected US official to visit Kyiv at the time. Alongside her, democratic representatives, Barbara Lee, Jason Crow, Gregory Meeks, Jim McGovern, Adam Schiff and Bill Keating also made their way to the war-torn country. The Democrat leader lauded the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who stood outside in the street to meet her, instead of some protected space. “The courage of the president in greeting us on the street rather than us just meeting him in his office was yet again another symbol of the courage of the people of Ukraine," she added. Even at the time, Pelosi told Zelensky that her visit to Kyiv was a way to say thank you. "We believe that we are visiting you to say thank you for your fight for freedom. We are on a frontier of freedom and your fight is a fight for everyone. Our commitment is to be there for you until the fight is done," she said back then. WATCH | US House speaker Nancy Pelosi meets Ukraine President Zelensky in Kyiv × Congress to back Ukraine: Pelosi Speaking about support for Ukraine, Pelosi said she was confident that despite Republicans casting aspersions over the release of billions of grants, the Congress will continue to back Kyiv against Moscow. “Support for Ukraine has been bipartisan and bicameral, in both houses of Congress by both parties, and the American people support democracy in Ukraine,” Pelosi told AP. “I believe that we will continue to support as long as we need to support democracy... as long as it takes to win.” In what was a rare occurrence, pelosi also lauded newly elected Speaker Kevin McCarthy for hosting Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library earlier this month. “That was really quite a message and quite an optic to be there. And so I salute what he did,” she said. ALSO READ | 'America stands firmly with Ukraine': US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visits Kyiv, meets President Zelensky Apart from visiting Ukraine, Pelosi's whirlwind trip to Taiwan was the highlight of her last year in the office. She visited the island in August and immediately after, China began a mammoth military exercise, aimed at sending a strong message. Speaking about Beijing's sharp rebuke, Pelosi termed it a 'cowardly' act. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'We thought we could die': Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi on visiting Ukraine last year

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Friday, said that Seoul was taking into consideration the options of supplying lethal aid to Kyiv and that it was necessary to make sure that Russia's invasion of Ukraine never happens.

In a speech at Harvard University's Kennedy School on the fifth day of a state visit to mark the 70th anniversary of the US-South Korean alliance, Yoon said the Russian offensive was a violation of international law and the rights of Ukrainians.

"We should prove that such attempts will never reach success, to block further attempts being made in the future," he said, as per the concurrent translations of his remarks.&nbsp;

On being asked about the possibility of providing lethal aid to Ukraine, the South Korean leader said, "We are closely monitoring the situation that’s going on the battlefield in Ukraine and will take proper measures in order to uphold the international norms and international law. Right now we are closely monitoring the situation and we are considering various options."

President Yoon met his United States counterpart Joe Biden at the White House on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Amidst soaring tensions over Pyongyang's growing arsenal of projectiles and explosives, the United States vowed to provide South Korea with more insight into its nuclear planning over any conflict with North Korea, signing the Washington Declaration in the process.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-south-korea-security-pact-will-worsen-situation-says-kim-jong-uns-sister-587196">WATCH |&nbsp;US, South Korea security pact will worsen situation, says Kim Jong Un's sister</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>'South Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian aid': Yoon</h2>

Yoon, in an interview with Reuters before leaving for the United States, had highlighted that Seoul might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack.

"If there is a situation the international community cannot condone, such as any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war, it might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or financial support," he said. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-us-south-korea-nuclear-weapons-deal-about-is-this-end-of-peace-in-korean-peninsula-586684">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Explained | What is US-South Korea nuclear weapons deal about? Is this end of peace in Korean Peninsula?</a>

"I believe there won't be limitations to the extent of the support to defend and restore a country that's been illegally invaded both under international and domestic law," he&nbsp;added. "However, considering our relationship with the parties engaged in the war and developments in the battlefield, we will take the most appropriate measures."

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Friday, said that Seoul was taking into consideration the options of supplying lethal aid to Kyiv and that it was necessary to make sure that Russia's invasion of Ukraine never happens.

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol, on Friday, said that Seoul was taking into consideration the options of supplying lethal aid to Kyiv and that it was necessary to make sure that Russia's invasion of Ukraine never happens. In a speech at Harvard University's Kennedy School on the fifth day of a state visit to mark the 70th anniversary of the US-South Korean alliance, Yoon said the Russian offensive was a violation of international law and the rights of Ukrainians. "We should prove that such attempts will never reach success, to block further attempts being made in the future," he said, as per the concurrent translations of his remarks. On being asked about the possibility of providing lethal aid to Ukraine, the South Korean leader said, "We are closely monitoring the situation that’s going on the battlefield in Ukraine and will take proper measures in order to uphold the international norms and international law. Right now we are closely monitoring the situation and we are considering various options." President Yoon met his United States counterpart Joe Biden at the White House on Wednesday. Amidst soaring tensions over Pyongyang's growing arsenal of projectiles and explosives, the United States vowed to provide South Korea with more insight into its nuclear planning over any conflict with North Korea, signing the Washington Declaration in the process. WATCH | US, South Korea security pact will worsen situation, says Kim Jong Un's sister × 'South Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian aid': Yoon Yoon, in an interview with Reuters before leaving for the United States, had highlighted that Seoul might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack. "If there is a situation the international community cannot condone, such as any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war, it might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or financial support," he said. ALSO READ | Explained | What is US-South Korea nuclear weapons deal about? Is this end of peace in Korean Peninsula? "I believe there won't be limitations to the extent of the support to defend and restore a country that's been illegally invaded both under international and domestic law," he added. "However, considering our relationship with the parties engaged in the war and developments in the battlefield, we will take the most appropriate measures." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Seoul considering options over lethal aid to Ukraine', says South Korean president

Ukraine's Eurovision act Tvorchi were due to perform at Kyiv's main rail station Friday when an air raid siren forced them down into the cellar, hours after massive shelling.

The group&nbsp;will represent Ukraine at the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool next month after the UK agreed to host the event instead of the 2022 winner Ukraine because of the war.&nbsp;

"It is what it is," said Andriy Hutsuliak, the electronic music group's 27-year-old producer, after the sirens sounded. &nbsp;

"We believe in our air-defence forces."&nbsp;

"We always have to come down and try to be safe," said the electronic group's 25-year-old vocalist, a Nigerian-Ukrainian who performs as Jeffery Kenny. His full name is Jimoh Augustus Kehinde.

The band members wore matching dark glasses and blue suits with sparkly ornaments in the shape of wheat sheaves. Hutsuliak had his nails painted scarlet.

As it turned out, the all-clear sounded in time for the duo to give an unannounced performance for surprised passengers in the entrance hall of the vast Stalin-era station, which is decked out with chandeliers and mosaics.

Frontman Kenny changed into a gold shirt and trousers, as Hutsuliak jabbed at a synthesiser wearing one black glove. Pink and blue lights flashed as the beats reverberated.

Their concert was to promote a drive to buy incubators for premature babies, run by United 24, an online donation platform supported by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

But the focus was on the forthcoming Eurovision contest.

- 'Heart of Steel' -

Tvorchi's&nbsp;song "Heart of Steel" "symbolises strength, it symbolises courage," said Kenny.&nbsp;

The duo talked of their pride in representing Ukraine.

"We feel honoured and excited to perform in Liverpool, so we just can't wait to show all that we've prepared," Hutsuliak told AFP.&nbsp;

While Kenny declined to give details of their stage show, he promised: "We're definitely preparing something nice.

"We hope it will impress everyone, because we're working a lot on it. And we just hope, you know, things go smoothly.

"We'll add some elements from the ones we had in the national selection and make it better in Liverpool," Hutsuliak added.

Kenny said they had received "a warm welcome" at concerts for fans with other contestants.

And Hutsuliak stressed they did not want "to be pitied" by those voting.

In the end, they acknowledged, the need to win the war overshadowed everything.

"For us it's most important to win the fight and to have peace in the country," said Hutsuliak.

But if they won this year's Eurovision and the situation became safe enough for next year's contest to be held in Ukraine, "we will appreciate that and we'll be happy. That'd be great".

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&nbsp;

Ukraine's Eurovision act Tvorchi were due to perform at Kyiv's main rail station Friday when an air raid siren forced them down into the cellar, hours after massive shelling.

Ukraine's Eurovision act Tvorchi were due to perform at Kyiv's main rail station Friday when an air raid siren forced them down into the cellar, hours after massive shelling. The group will represent Ukraine at the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool next month after the UK agreed to host the event instead of the 2022 winner Ukraine because of the war. "It is what it is," said Andriy Hutsuliak, the electronic music group's 27-year-old producer, after the sirens sounded. "We believe in our air-defence forces." "We always have to come down and try to be safe," said the electronic group's 25-year-old vocalist, a Nigerian-Ukrainian who performs as Jeffery Kenny. His full name is Jimoh Augustus Kehinde. The band members wore matching dark glasses and blue suits with sparkly ornaments in the shape of wheat sheaves. Hutsuliak had his nails painted scarlet. As it turned out, the all-clear sounded in time for the duo to give an unannounced performance for surprised passengers in the entrance hall of the vast Stalin-era station, which is decked out with chandeliers and mosaics. Frontman Kenny changed into a gold shirt and trousers, as Hutsuliak jabbed at a synthesiser wearing one black glove. Pink and blue lights flashed as the beats reverberated. Their concert was to promote a drive to buy incubators for premature babies, run by United 24, an online donation platform supported by President Volodymyr Zelensky. But the focus was on the forthcoming Eurovision contest. - 'Heart of Steel' - Tvorchi's song "Heart of Steel" "symbolises strength, it symbolises courage," said Kenny. The duo talked of their pride in representing Ukraine. "We feel honoured and excited to perform in Liverpool, so we just can't wait to show all that we've prepared," Hutsuliak told AFP. While Kenny declined to give details of their stage show, he promised: "We're definitely preparing something nice. "We hope it will impress everyone, because we're working a lot on it. And we just hope, you know, things go smoothly. "We'll add some elements from the ones we had in the national selection and make it better in Liverpool," Hutsuliak added. Kenny said they had received "a warm welcome" at concerts for fans with other contestants. And Hutsuliak stressed they did not want "to be pitied" by those voting. In the end, they acknowledged, the need to win the war overshadowed everything. "For us it's most important to win the fight and to have peace in the country," said Hutsuliak. But if they won this year's Eurovision and the situation became safe enough for next year's contest to be held in Ukraine, "we will appreciate that and we'll be happy. That'd be great". 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.

Show goes on, despite air raid, for Ukraine Eurovision act

More than a year after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of neighboring Ukraine, the countries are fighting for control of areas in eastern and southern Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says it's 'ready' for counteroffensive

A Danish newspaper has claimed quoting the Denmark military that a Russian Navy ship was spotted near the Nord Stream pipelines days before the September 2022 blasts.

Dagbladet Information newspaper on Thursday reported that the Russian submarine rescue ship, SS-750, was spotted in the Baltic Sea just four days before the unexplained explosions near the pipeline that linked Russia to Germany.

The paper quoting Danish defence authorities reported that as&nbsp;many as 26 images were taken of the ship, which carries a small submarine that is designed to carry out underwater operations.

“The Danish military confirmed that 26 photos of the Russian vessel were taken from a Danish patrol boat in the zone located east of Bornholm on 22 September 2022,” the newspaper said, adding that the photos were classified.

The prosecutor leading Sweden’s investigation into the sabotage has acknowledged the existence of these photographs.

“I’m aware of the information from before…This is not new information to us,” public prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist said on Friday, AFP news agency reported.

He, however, did not divulge further on how the probing team intends to use these photographs for investigation, saying that it was “confidential".

<h2>Nord Stream blasts: Will do everything we can to stop western cover-up, says Russia</h2>

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Seven months have passed since the blasts and it has not yet been established who was responsible for it, despite criminal investigations launched by three countries—Germany, Sweden and Denmark—that border the pipeline.

Swedish and Danish authorities termed the blasts an act of deliberate sabotage. In November, Sweden’s Prosecution Authority claimed that residues of explosives and several “foreign objects” were found at the “crime scene” on the seabed, around 100 metres below the surface of the Baltic Sea, close to the Danish Island of Bornholm.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-missile-strikes-kill-26-including-five-children-zelensky-vows-response-587174">Ukraine war: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children</a>

In March, The New York Times reported that US intelligence officials have proof that a “pro-Ukrainian group” was responsible for the blasts, without the involvement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

At that time Ljungqvist said it was “still unclear” who was behind the sabotage, calling it “a complex case”. 
 
“Our primary assumption is that a state is behind it,” he was quoted as saying.

Still, speculations about Russia's involvement haven't been completely ruled out. Last week,&nbsp;a joint investigation by Danish, Finnish, Swedish and Norwegian public broadcasters last week found that Russia has been using civilian vessels to collect intelligence on military activity and critical infrastructure in the North Sea, Politico reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Danish newspaper has claimed quoting the Denmark military that a Russian Navy ship was spotted near the Nord Stream pipelines days before the September 2022 blasts.

A Danish newspaper has claimed quoting the Denmark military that a Russian Navy ship was spotted near the Nord Stream pipelines days before the September 2022 blasts. Dagbladet Information newspaper on Thursday reported that the Russian submarine rescue ship, SS-750, was spotted in the Baltic Sea just four days before the unexplained explosions near the pipeline that linked Russia to Germany. The paper quoting Danish defence authorities reported that as many as 26 images were taken of the ship, which carries a small submarine that is designed to carry out underwater operations. “The Danish military confirmed that 26 photos of the Russian vessel were taken from a Danish patrol boat in the zone located east of Bornholm on 22 September 2022,” the newspaper said, adding that the photos were classified. The prosecutor leading Sweden’s investigation into the sabotage has acknowledged the existence of these photographs. “I’m aware of the information from before…This is not new information to us,” public prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist said on Friday, AFP news agency reported. He, however, did not divulge further on how the probing team intends to use these photographs for investigation, saying that it was “confidential". Nord Stream blasts: Will do everything we can to stop western cover-up, says Russia Seven months have passed since the blasts and it has not yet been established who was responsible for it, despite criminal investigations launched by three countries—Germany, Sweden and Denmark—that border the pipeline. Swedish and Danish authorities termed the blasts an act of deliberate sabotage. In November, Sweden’s Prosecution Authority claimed that residues of explosives and several “foreign objects” were found at the “crime scene” on the seabed, around 100 metres below the surface of the Baltic Sea, close to the Danish Island of Bornholm. Also read | Ukraine war: Russian missile strikes kill 26 including five children In March, The New York Times reported that US intelligence officials have proof that a “pro-Ukrainian group” was responsible for the blasts, without the involvement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. At that time Ljungqvist said it was “still unclear” who was behind the sabotage, calling it “a complex case”. “Our primary assumption is that a state is behind it,” he was quoted as saying. Still, speculations about Russia's involvement haven't been completely ruled out. Last week, a joint investigation by Danish, Finnish, Swedish and Norwegian public broadcasters last week found that Russia has been using civilian vessels to collect intelligence on military activity and critical infrastructure in the North Sea, Politico reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian navy ship photographed near Nord Stream pipelines days before blasts: Report

Ukrainian secret service agents tried to assassinate Vladimir Putin with a kamikaze drone carrying explosives - but failed after it crashed a few miles short of their target, as per reports.

Ukraine used ‘kamikaze drone’ in Putin ‘assassination attempt’ : Report

A journalist from Ukraine was killed while travelling to the city of Kherson with an Italian colleague on Wednesday (April 26).&nbsp;Bogdan Bitik, who was working as an interpreter&nbsp;for La Repubblica reporter&nbsp;Corrado Zunino, was shot, according to the Italian newspaper, "most likely by Russian snipers".

Zunino is currently undergoing treatment after being shot in the shoulder.

From a hospital bed, he revealed to La Repubblica that they had just passed three Ukrainian checks when they were abruptly hit.&nbsp;

“I heard a hiss, and I saw Bogdan on the ground,” Zunino told Al Jazeera.

“He wasn’t moving. I crawled out of the line of fire. I ran until I passed a civilian car. I was full of blood. I had to be taken to Kherson Hospital.”

He added that he had been trying to call Bitik, who he described as “a great friend”, but got no answer.

“It’s excruciating,” he said.

Zunino claims that both men were wearing press vests when they were attacked next to the demolished Antonivskyi Bridge.

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This murder of the Ukrainian journalist Bogdan Bitik and wounding of <a href="https://twitter.com/corzunino?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@corzunino</a> is a new war crime of the Russians. At the same time, we appeal to the Italian Unions and to <a href="https://twitter.com/repubblica?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@repubblica</a> with a call to guarantee the protection of the rights of the Ukrainian fixer <a href="https://twitter.com/EFJEUROPE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EFJEUROPE</a> <a href="https://t.co/N2mjtfWYJI">pic.twitter.com/N2mjtfWYJI</a>
— Sergiy Tomilenko (@Stommedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stommedia/status/1651510098617876481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Committee to Protect Journalists estimates that since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, at least 15 media professionals and journalists have died there.

<h2>'New war crime of the Russians'</h2>

The leader of the Ukrainian National Union of Journalists, Sergiy Tomilenko, branded the incident a "new war crime of the Russians" and urged Italian organisations and publications, including La Repubblica, to do more to safeguard Ukrainian reporters.

“I’m fine. But I’m sad to have lost a friend,” Zunino said in an interview on the Breakfast Club show at Radio Capital.

“I went on five missions with Bogdan. I’ve known him since I first arrived in Ukraine. He had returned to Ukraine from Indonesia, where he has a wife and a son. I have just spoken to his wife. They are all extraordinary, kind and generous people”.

As reported by La Repubblica, the body of Bitik has not yet been found.

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Kherson was taken over in the early stages of the war before being freed by Ukrainian forces in November 2022.

After retreating across the Dnipro River, Russian forces have since regularly attacked the area with artillery, missiles, drone attacks, and sniper attacks.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A journalist from Ukraine was killed while travelling to the city of Kherson with an Italian colleague on Wednesday (April 26). Bogdan Bitik, who was working as an interpreter for La Repubblica reporter Corrado Zunino, was shot, according to the Italian newspaper, "most likely by Russian snipers".

A journalist from Ukraine was killed while travelling to the city of Kherson with an Italian colleague on Wednesday (April 26). Bogdan Bitik, who was working as an interpreter for La Repubblica reporter Corrado Zunino, was shot, according to the Italian newspaper, "most likely by Russian snipers". Zunino is currently undergoing treatment after being shot in the shoulder. From a hospital bed, he revealed to La Repubblica that they had just passed three Ukrainian checks when they were abruptly hit. “I heard a hiss, and I saw Bogdan on the ground,” Zunino told Al Jazeera. “He wasn’t moving. I crawled out of the line of fire. I ran until I passed a civilian car. I was full of blood. I had to be taken to Kherson Hospital.” He added that he had been trying to call Bitik, who he described as “a great friend”, but got no answer. “It’s excruciating,” he said. Zunino claims that both men were wearing press vests when they were attacked next to the demolished Antonivskyi Bridge. This murder of the Ukrainian journalist Bogdan Bitik and wounding of @corzunino is a new war crime of the Russians. At the same time, we appeal to the Italian Unions and to @repubblica with a call to guarantee the protection of the rights of the Ukrainian fixer @EFJEUROPE pic.twitter.com/N2mjtfWYJI — Sergiy Tomilenko (@Stommedia) April 27, 2023 × The Committee to Protect Journalists estimates that since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, at least 15 media professionals and journalists have died there. 'New war crime of the Russians' The leader of the Ukrainian National Union of Journalists, Sergiy Tomilenko, branded the incident a "new war crime of the Russians" and urged Italian organisations and publications, including La Repubblica, to do more to safeguard Ukrainian reporters. “I’m fine. But I’m sad to have lost a friend,” Zunino said in an interview on the Breakfast Club show at Radio Capital. “I went on five missions with Bogdan. I’ve known him since I first arrived in Ukraine. He had returned to Ukraine from Indonesia, where he has a wife and a son. I have just spoken to his wife. They are all extraordinary, kind and generous people”. As reported by La Repubblica, the body of Bitik has not yet been found. ALSO READ | White House responds to Pakistan purchasing discounted Russian oil Kherson was taken over in the early stages of the war before being freed by Ukrainian forces in November 2022. After retreating across the Dnipro River, Russian forces have since regularly attacked the area with artillery, missiles, drone attacks, and sniper attacks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian journalist shot dead in alleged Russian sniper attack

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to help bring back the children, allegedly deported by Moscow.&nbsp;

"We need to involve everyone... to put pressure on the Russian aggressor and the terrorists who kidnapped so many of our children," said Zelensky.&nbsp;

"The UN, many others want to do something, but so far the results have been poor. So I have appealed to the leader of China," he added.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian government has claimed nearly 16,000 children have been abducted by Russia since February last year. Kremlin has not denied the accusation, albeit presented it as a humanitarian campaign to protect the orphans present in the conflict areas.&nbsp;

Due to the allegations, the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this year issued an arrest warrant in the name of Putin.&nbsp;Though&nbsp;ICC attempts to start a legal battle, Moscow has stated it will not be entertaining any arrest warrant. The country withdrew its membership from ICC in 2016.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-xi-jinping-calls-ukrainian-president-zelensky-us-and-eu-hails-the-talks-586487">WATCH |&nbsp;China’s Xi Jinping calls Ukrainian President Zelensky, US and EU hails the talks</a>

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<h2>Zelensky's call with Xi</h2>

Zelensky informed about the request, couple of days after he held a 'long and meaningful' phone call with Xi.&nbsp;This was&nbsp;the first instance that the two leaders spoke to each other since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

"I had a long and meaningful phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. I believe that this call, as well as the appointment of Ukraine's ambassador to China, will give a powerful impetus to the development of our bilateral relations," Zelensky said.&nbsp;

Chinese state media broadcaster CCTV reported about the call and said that Xi told Zelensky that China has "always stood on the side of peace".

"On the issue of the Ukraine crisis, China has always stood on the side of peace and its core position is to promote peace talks," CCTV reported Xi as saying during the phone call.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-speaks-with-zelensky-over-the-phone-586328">ALSO READ |&nbsp;'Long and meaningful': Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks with Zelensky over phone</a>

Since the turn of the year, the Chinese leader has presented himself as the mediator of peace. During his visit to Russia to meet Putin in March, Xi repeatedly batted for maintaining stability and&nbsp;peace in the region. Beijing even prepared a 12-point peace plan to bring the war to an end.&nbsp;&nbsp;

China has established a "no-limits" friendship with Russia in the aftermath of the war where it has refused to denounce Moscow's aggressiveness, all the while presenting itself as impartial. However, Zelensky's recent outreach efforts may force Beijing to rethink its impartial approach, experts stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to help bring back the children, allegedly deported by Moscow. "We need to involve everyone.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to help bring back the children, allegedly deported by Moscow. "We need to involve everyone... to put pressure on the Russian aggressor and the terrorists who kidnapped so many of our children," said Zelensky. "The UN, many others want to do something, but so far the results have been poor. So I have appealed to the leader of China," he added. The Ukrainian government has claimed nearly 16,000 children have been abducted by Russia since February last year. Kremlin has not denied the accusation, albeit presented it as a humanitarian campaign to protect the orphans present in the conflict areas. Due to the allegations, the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this year issued an arrest warrant in the name of Putin. Though ICC attempts to start a legal battle, Moscow has stated it will not be entertaining any arrest warrant. The country withdrew its membership from ICC in 2016. WATCH | China’s Xi Jinping calls Ukrainian President Zelensky, US and EU hails the talks × Zelensky's call with Xi Zelensky informed about the request, couple of days after he held a 'long and meaningful' phone call with Xi. This was the first instance that the two leaders spoke to each other since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. "I had a long and meaningful phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. I believe that this call, as well as the appointment of Ukraine's ambassador to China, will give a powerful impetus to the development of our bilateral relations," Zelensky said. Chinese state media broadcaster CCTV reported about the call and said that Xi told Zelensky that China has "always stood on the side of peace". "On the issue of the Ukraine crisis, China has always stood on the side of peace and its core position is to promote peace talks," CCTV reported Xi as saying during the phone call. ALSO READ | 'Long and meaningful': Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks with Zelensky over phone Since the turn of the year, the Chinese leader has presented himself as the mediator of peace. During his visit to Russia to meet Putin in March, Xi repeatedly batted for maintaining stability and peace in the region. Beijing even prepared a 12-point peace plan to bring the war to an end. China has established a "no-limits" friendship with Russia in the aftermath of the war where it has refused to denounce Moscow's aggressiveness, all the while presenting itself as impartial. However, Zelensky's recent outreach efforts may force Beijing to rethink its impartial approach, experts stated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zelensky requests Xi's help to bring back deported children from Russia

Russia has launched a wave of air strikes against cities across Ukraine, including Kyiv, leaving at least 12 people dead. Ten people including a child were killed in an attack that hit a block of flats in the central city of Uman, officials said.

Ukraine war: Twelve dead as Russian missiles hit cities

There is no let up in Russia's onslaught. Russian troops pounded Ukraine with a barrage of missile strikes. Sea-launched missiles hit a residential block in the city of Mykolaiv killing one and injuring twenty three. Russian artillery also continued it's onslaught on Bakhmut, while Ukrainian forces prepare a counter-offensive in the besieged city.

Ukraine: One dead, 23 injured in Russian missile strike on port city of Mykolaiv

Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, the first known call between the two leaders since the start of Russia's invasion. The nearly one-hour discussion, which reportedly included Xi advocating for peace negotiations, was met by Russian accusations that Ukraine was undermining efforts to end the fighting. Beijing says it is neutral in the Ukraine conflict and Xi has never condemned the Russian invasion, but the Chinese leader has come under increased pressure from Western nations to step in and mediate.

China’s Xi Jinping calls Ukrainian President Zelensky, US and EU hails the talks

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