<p>European Union threatened to impose sanctions on Belarus on Sunday (March 26) in what may be first major pushback from the West against Russian plans to station tactical nuclear weapons in the country. EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said this in no uncertain terms.</p>

<p>"Belarus hosting Russian nuclear weapons would mean an irresponsible escalation and threat to European security. Belarus can still stop it, it is their choice. The EU stands ready to respond with further sanctions," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belarus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belarus</a> hosting Russian nuclear weapons would mean an irresponsible escalation &amp; threat to European security. Belarus can still stop it, it is their choice.<br />
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The EU stands ready to respond with further sanctions.</p>
— Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) <a href="https://twitter.com/JosepBorrellF/status/1639982108612370432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin himseld announced on Saturday that Russia plans to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. Belarusian regime led by President Lukashenko is a strong ally of Russia.</p>

<p>Tactical nuclear weapons are aimed at gaining decisive advantage in a local battlefield as opposed to 'strategic' nuclear weapons which have capacity to flatten entire cities in one go.</p>

<p>Putin said that the planned deployment was similar to moves from the US, which stores such weapons in bases across Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey, an analogy western allies called "misleading".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-says-belarus-will-be-hostage-if-russia-places-tactical-nukes-575875">Ukraine slams Russia's nuke plans, says Belarus taken 'hostage'</a></strong></p>

<p>Prior to EU's declaration of sanctions, West's response to Putin's announcement has been relatively low-key.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian foreign ministry accused Russia of breaching its obligations, and of undermining the "nuclear disarmament architecture and the international security system in general".</p>

<p>It called on "all members of the international community to convey to the criminal Putin regime the categorical unacceptability of its latest.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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European Union threatened to impose sanctions on Belarus on Sunday (March 26) in what may be first major pushback from the West against Russian plans to station tactical nuclear weapons in the country.

European Union threatened to impose sanctions on Belarus on Sunday (March 26) in what may be first major pushback from the West against Russian plans to station tactical nuclear weapons in the country. EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said this in no uncertain terms. "Belarus hosting Russian nuclear weapons would mean an irresponsible escalation and threat to European security. Belarus can still stop it, it is their choice. The EU stands ready to respond with further sanctions," he tweeted. #Belarus hosting Russian nuclear weapons would mean an irresponsible escalation & threat to European security. Belarus can still stop it, it is their choice. The EU stands ready to respond with further sanctions. — Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) March 26, 2023 × Russian President Vladimir Putin himseld announced on Saturday that Russia plans to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. Belarusian regime led by President Lukashenko is a strong ally of Russia. Tactical nuclear weapons are aimed at gaining decisive advantage in a local battlefield as opposed to 'strategic' nuclear weapons which have capacity to flatten entire cities in one go. Putin said that the planned deployment was similar to moves from the US, which stores such weapons in bases across Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey, an analogy western allies called "misleading". Also Read | Ukraine slams Russia's nuke plans, says Belarus taken 'hostage' Prior to EU's declaration of sanctions, West's response to Putin's announcement has been relatively low-key. The Ukrainian foreign ministry accused Russia of breaching its obligations, and of undermining the "nuclear disarmament architecture and the international security system in general". It called on "all members of the international community to convey to the criminal Putin regime the categorical unacceptability of its latest. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

EU warns of new sanctions if Belarus hosts Russian nukes

<p>Russia eased to a 2-0 win over Iraq in a friendly on Sunday as they played their first international match on home soil since November 2021 after being barred from global competitions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Substitute Anton Miranchuk fired Russia ahead shortly after halftime, pouncing on a rebound after Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan Hachim parried Alexander Sobolev's low shot to his right.</p>

<p>Sergei Pinyaev then grabbed a stylish second, becoming Russia's youngest ever goalscorer in the process at 18 years, four months and 24 days. The Lokomotiv Moscow winger exploited Iraq's high defensive line, before cutting in from the left and squeezing a low shot to the goalkeeper's right.</p>

<p>The hosts dominated possession but struggled to make it pay in the first half, with Ayman Hussein and Ibrahim Bayesh squandering good opportunities for the visitors.</p>

<p>Official attendance at the 68,000-seater Gazprom Arena was 23,818. The stadium had been due to host last year's Champions League final before Russia was stripped of that honour.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ancelotti-to-brazil-would-be-a-no-brainer-says-fa-president-ednaldo-rodrigues-on-potential-move-575894">'Ancelotti to Brazil would be a no-brainer' - says FA President Ednaldo Rodrigues on potential move</a></p>

<p>Both European soccer body UEFA and global football's governing body FIFA decided in February 2022 that all Russian teams - national or club sides - would be suspended from their competitions following the invasion.</p>

<p>Russia's men have played just four matches since Moscow embarked on what it calls a "special military operation" in Ukraine, all away from home, winning 2-1 in Kyrgyzstan last September, before draws against Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Iran.</p>

<p>The hosts created a few chances in the first half, with Russia's best moment coming from Danil Fomin, who forced a great save from Hassan Hachim after 36 minutes.</p>

<p>But Iraq came closest to opening the scoring on the counter attack, with Hussein blazing wide from a tight angle, before Bayesh saw his shot from 20 yards saved comfortably by Sergei Pesyakov.</p>

<p>The Russian goalkeeper looked shaky on the ball, almost gifting Iraq a goal twice with loose passes.</p>

<p>Miranchuk squandered a chance to double his tally in the 65th minute, while Sobolev struck the bar with a header two minutes later.</p>


Russia eased to a 2-0 win over Iraq in a friendly on Sunday as they played their first international match on home soil since November 2021 after being barred from global competitions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia eased to a 2-0 win over Iraq in a friendly on Sunday as they played their first international match on home soil since November 2021 after being barred from global competitions over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Substitute Anton Miranchuk fired Russia ahead shortly after halftime, pouncing on a rebound after Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan Hachim parried Alexander Sobolev's low shot to his right. Sergei Pinyaev then grabbed a stylish second, becoming Russia's youngest ever goalscorer in the process at 18 years, four months and 24 days. The Lokomotiv Moscow winger exploited Iraq's high defensive line, before cutting in from the left and squeezing a low shot to the goalkeeper's right. The hosts dominated possession but struggled to make it pay in the first half, with Ayman Hussein and Ibrahim Bayesh squandering good opportunities for the visitors. Official attendance at the 68,000-seater Gazprom Arena was 23,818. The stadium had been due to host last year's Champions League final before Russia was stripped of that honour. ALSO READ: 'Ancelotti to Brazil would be a no-brainer' - says FA President Ednaldo Rodrigues on potential move Both European soccer body UEFA and global football's governing body FIFA decided in February 2022 that all Russian teams - national or club sides - would be suspended from their competitions following the invasion. Russia's men have played just four matches since Moscow embarked on what it calls a "special military operation" in Ukraine, all away from home, winning 2-1 in Kyrgyzstan last September, before draws against Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Iran. The hosts created a few chances in the first half, with Russia's best moment coming from Danil Fomin, who forced a great save from Hassan Hachim after 36 minutes. But Iraq came closest to opening the scoring on the counter attack, with Hussein blazing wide from a tight angle, before Bayesh saw his shot from 20 yards saved comfortably by Sergei Pesyakov. The Russian goalkeeper looked shaky on the ball, almost gifting Iraq a goal twice with loose passes. Miranchuk squandered a chance to double his tally in the 65th minute, while Sobolev struck the bar with a header two minutes later.

Russia beat Iraq 2-0 in first home international friendly since Ukraine invasion

Russia is set to deploy its tactical nuclear weapons in in its neighbouring country Belarus. President Vladimir Putin made this announcement, as per Russian media reports, this will be the first time since mid-1990s that Moscow would be stationed in such arms outside its territory.

Russia to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus

Will Russia-US respect 'new start treaty'?

Russian President Putin: Not violating our international obligations

Even after losing the East Bakhmut area, Ukrainians were determined to hold the fort, and it appears that the strategy is working. In the recent months, the Russia-Ukraine war has been focused on one city, the eastern city of Bakhmut. Russia has been attempting to encircle the area to choke supply for Ukrainians.

Russian troops losing momentum in Bakhmut battle | Russia-Ukraine War

<p>A top security adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed Russian plans to place tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. He said that such a step will destabilise Belarus, which according to him was taken "hostage" by Moscow.</p>

<p>Oleksiy Danilov, head of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council, called it "a step towards internal destabilization of the country" adding it maximizes what he called the level of "negative perception and public rejection" of Russia and Putin in Belarusian society.</p>

<p>"The (K)remlin took Belarus as a nuclear hostage," he wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia to deploy tactical nuclear weapons, US reacts cautiously to move</strong></p>

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<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the decision to place tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus on Saturday. This was seen as a warning to NATO over its military support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>Although the move was not unexpected and Putin said it would not violate nuclear non-proliferation promises, it is one of Russia's most pronounced nuclear signals since the beginning of its invasion of Ukraine 13 months ago.</p>

<p>Putin likened his plans to the U.S. stationing its weapons in Europe, and said Russia would not be transferring control of the weapons to Belarus.</p>

<p>"We are not handing over (the weapons). And the U.S. does not hand (them) over to its allies. We're basically doing the same thing they've been doing for a decade," Putin said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nordic-nations-plan-joint-air-defence-to-counter-rising-threat-from-russia-575853">Nordic nations plan joint air defence to counter rising threat from Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>However this could be the first time since the mid-1990s that Russia has based such weapons outside the country. Experts told Reuters the development was significant, since Russia had until now been proud that unlike the United States, it did not deploy nuclear weapons outside its borders.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A top security adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed Russian plans to place tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. He said that such a step will destabilise Belarus, which according to him was taken "hostage" by Moscow.

A top security adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed Russian plans to place tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. He said that such a step will destabilise Belarus, which according to him was taken "hostage" by Moscow. Oleksiy Danilov, head of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council, called it "a step towards internal destabilization of the country" adding it maximizes what he called the level of "negative perception and public rejection" of Russia and Putin in Belarusian society. "The (K)remlin took Belarus as a nuclear hostage," he wrote on Twitter. Watch | Russia to deploy tactical nuclear weapons, US reacts cautiously to move × Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the decision to place tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus on Saturday. This was seen as a warning to NATO over its military support for Ukraine. Although the move was not unexpected and Putin said it would not violate nuclear non-proliferation promises, it is one of Russia's most pronounced nuclear signals since the beginning of its invasion of Ukraine 13 months ago. Putin likened his plans to the U.S. stationing its weapons in Europe, and said Russia would not be transferring control of the weapons to Belarus. "We are not handing over (the weapons). And the U.S. does not hand (them) over to its allies. We're basically doing the same thing they've been doing for a decade," Putin said. Also Read | Nordic nations plan joint air defence to counter rising threat from Russia However this could be the first time since the mid-1990s that Russia has based such weapons outside the country. Experts told Reuters the development was significant, since Russia had until now been proud that unlike the United States, it did not deploy nuclear weapons outside its borders. (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 slams Russia's nuke plans, says Belarus taken 'hostage'

<p>In an interview with Japanese newspaper&nbsp;Yomiuri Shimbun, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv cannot start a counter-offensive against Moscow until Western allies send more military support. He also said that the situation in the eastern part of the country is “not good” and that he has appealed to the United States and European countries to ramp up their supply of ammunition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as the eastern region of the war-torn country has witnessed some of the fiercest battles, including one for the key city of Bakhmut. However, Ukraine’s commander-in-chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, on Friday said in a Facebook post, that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While acknowledging the situation on Ukraine’s frontlines, Zaluzhnyi also said that it “is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction” and that it is due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation”. Reports also suggest that Ukraine has been witnessing mounting casualties in the region.</p>

<p>“We are waiting for ammunition to arrive from our partners,” said Zelensky to the Japanese newspaper.&nbsp;The Ukrainian president also spoke about how tanks provided by Germany and others are expected to be deployed on the battlefield from April, adding, “We need tanks for the “de-occupation of Ukraine.” When asked about the expected counter-offensive, Zelensky said, “We can’t start yet, we can't send our brave soldiers to the front line without tanks, artillery and long-range rockets.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports of speculation about Ukraine’s counter-offensive, particularly about the time and place it might happen, have also left Kyiv’s defence ministry irate. Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar took to social media and urged people to stop discussing potential plans. She added, “Please stop asking experts questions about a counter-offensive on the air, please stop writing blogs and posts on this topic, please stop publicly discussing the military plans of our army,” reported BBC.<br />
<br />
During the interview, Zelensky also spoke about China's&nbsp;12-point peace plan which does not call for&nbsp;the withdrawal of Russian troops or the returning of all territory seized by Moscow and said, “Our sovereignty and territorial integrity comes first.”&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Zelensky also said that he did not receive a message from Beijing about&nbsp;a proposal to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine and that even after&nbsp;"straight messages" through the diplomatic channels he wanted to speak with Chinese President&nbsp;Xi Jinping, he did not&nbsp;get a response.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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In an interview with Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv cannot start a counter-offensive against Moscow until Western allies send more military support.

In an interview with Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Kyiv cannot start a counter-offensive against Moscow until Western allies send more military support. He also said that the situation in the eastern part of the country is “not good” and that he has appealed to the United States and European countries to ramp up their supply of ammunition. This comes as the eastern region of the war-torn country has witnessed some of the fiercest battles, including one for the key city of Bakhmut. However, Ukraine’s commander-in-chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, on Friday said in a Facebook post, that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”. While acknowledging the situation on Ukraine’s frontlines, Zaluzhnyi also said that it “is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction” and that it is due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation”. Reports also suggest that Ukraine has been witnessing mounting casualties in the region. “We are waiting for ammunition to arrive from our partners,” said Zelensky to the Japanese newspaper. The Ukrainian president also spoke about how tanks provided by Germany and others are expected to be deployed on the battlefield from April, adding, “We need tanks for the “de-occupation of Ukraine.” When asked about the expected counter-offensive, Zelensky said, “We can’t start yet, we can't send our brave soldiers to the front line without tanks, artillery and long-range rockets.” Reports of speculation about Ukraine’s counter-offensive, particularly about the time and place it might happen, have also left Kyiv’s defence ministry irate. Ukraine’s Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar took to social media and urged people to stop discussing potential plans. She added, “Please stop asking experts questions about a counter-offensive on the air, please stop writing blogs and posts on this topic, please stop publicly discussing the military plans of our army,” reported BBC. During the interview, Zelensky also spoke about China's 12-point peace plan which does not call for the withdrawal of Russian troops or the returning of all territory seized by Moscow and said, “Our sovereignty and territorial integrity comes first.” Zelensky also said that he did not receive a message from Beijing about a proposal to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine and that even after "straight messages" through the diplomatic channels he wanted to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he did not get a response. (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 cannot launch counter-offensive without more weapons: Zelensky

The United Nations has said that it is deeply concerned about summary executions of prisoners of war by both Russian and Ukrainian forces. Moscow and Kyiv have accused each other of mistreating prisoners of war since Russian President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine a year ago. The head of the UN human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine stated her organisation had recently recorded killings by both sides.

'Summary executions' of Prisoners of War; UN accuses Ukrainian & Russian Armed Forces | Details

On an official visit to Canada that started on Thursday, President Joe Biden met briefly with Justin Trudeau. At a joint news conference, Trudeau and Biden questioned the level of China's cooperation, noting that China did not provided weapons to Russia for use against Ukraine.

Joe Biden-Justin Trudeau meet: 'American, Canadians are two people sharing one heart,' says Biden

<p>Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said on Saturday (March 25) that over 5,000 former criminals were pardoned after finishing their contracts to fight in the group against Ukraine. In an audio clip posted on Telegram, Prigozhin said, "At present, more than 5,000 people have been released on pardon after completing their contracts with Wagner," the news agency Reuters reported. Prigozhin added that only 0.31 per cent of those pardoned after serving with Wagner go on to commit a crime, a figure he said was 10-20 times less than the standard indicators.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-troops-lose-momentum-in-battle-of-bakhmut-as-ukraine-puts-up-strong-defence-575529">Russian troops losing momentum in Bakhmut battle as Ukraine puts up strong defence</a></strong></p>

<p>Wagner, the Russian mercenary group, has played an important role in the Ukraine war after the Russian army suffered a series of humiliating defeats last year. Yevgeny Prigozhin emerged from the shadows and recruited thousands from prisons, offering them freedom for serving in some of the most dangerous battles in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The announcement of criminals being pardoned comes after Prigozhin told Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu that the Ukrainian army was planning an imminent offensive aimed at cutting off his Wagner forces from the main body of Russian troops in eastern Ukraine.</p>

<p>In a letter to Shoigu on Monday, Prigozhin said that the large-scale attack was planned by Ukraine for late March or the start of April. He urged the defence minister to take all necessary measures to prevent Wagner from being "cut off from the main forces of the Russian army, which will lead to negative consequences for the special military operation."</p>

<p>This was the first time that the Wagner chief published such correspondence with Shoigu, who&nbsp;he frequently criticised over the conduct of the war. Prigozhin also said on Monday that he was providing details of the Ukrainian plan and of his proposal to counter it in an attachment to the letter, Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In separate comments published on Telegram, Prigozhin also said there was a "high probability" that the Russian city of Belgorod would be one of the targets of the coming Ukrainian offensive.<br />
<br />
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Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said on Saturday (March 25) that over 5,000 former criminals were pardoned after finishing their contracts to fight in the group against Ukraine.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said on Saturday (March 25) that over 5,000 former criminals were pardoned after finishing their contracts to fight in the group against Ukraine. In an audio clip posted on Telegram, Prigozhin said, "At present, more than 5,000 people have been released on pardon after completing their contracts with Wagner," the news agency Reuters reported. Prigozhin added that only 0.31 per cent of those pardoned after serving with Wagner go on to commit a crime, a figure he said was 10-20 times less than the standard indicators. ALSO READ | Russian troops losing momentum in Bakhmut battle as Ukraine puts up strong defence Wagner, the Russian mercenary group, has played an important role in the Ukraine war after the Russian army suffered a series of humiliating defeats last year. Yevgeny Prigozhin emerged from the shadows and recruited thousands from prisons, offering them freedom for serving in some of the most dangerous battles in Ukraine. The announcement of criminals being pardoned comes after Prigozhin told Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu that the Ukrainian army was planning an imminent offensive aimed at cutting off his Wagner forces from the main body of Russian troops in eastern Ukraine. In a letter to Shoigu on Monday, Prigozhin said that the large-scale attack was planned by Ukraine for late March or the start of April. He urged the defence minister to take all necessary measures to prevent Wagner from being "cut off from the main forces of the Russian army, which will lead to negative consequences for the special military operation." This was the first time that the Wagner chief published such correspondence with Shoigu, who he frequently criticised over the conduct of the war. Prigozhin also said on Monday that he was providing details of the Ukrainian plan and of his proposal to counter it in an attachment to the letter, Reuters reported. In separate comments published on Telegram, Prigozhin also said there was a "high probability" that the Russian city of Belgorod would be one of the targets of the coming Ukrainian offensive. 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.

Wagner chief says over 5,000 criminals pardoned by Russia after fighting in Ukraine war

<p>Russia's position towards several of the major international organisations has only become more rigid as a result of the war in Ukraine. In a recent statement, Russia refused&nbsp;its participation in this year's Earth Hour and called the country's World Wildlife Fund (WWF) branch a "foreign agent."</p>

<p>Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, stated to reporters, "This year, we have decided to refrain from participating in this action. This is due precisely to the fact that (the organisers) have become foreign agents."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-supplier-snubs-china-as-talks-move-for-second-india-factory-575629">Apple supplier snubs China as talks move for second India factory</a></p>

<h2><strong>What is Earth Hour?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The WWF Earth Hour is the largest global climate and environmental protection campaign uniting people to take action on environmental issues and protect the planet. On Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 8:30 p.m., individuals are encouraged to turn out the lights in their homes for one hour in observance of Earth Hour.</p>

<p>Earlier on March 10, in another such instance, the&nbsp;Justice Ministry of Russia branded the WWF's Russian branch a "foreign agent". However, no further clarity was provided by the Russian government. Moscow failed to specify the reason for such a designation. Let alone justification, Russia also did not say anything as to which nation was funding the WWF.</p>

<p>The Russian branch of the WWF deemed the designation of a "foreign agent" as "unjustified" and said that it would work to get it reversed in court. This month, more than 60 environmental organisations signed a petition asking Russian President Vladimir Putin to remove the WWF's designation as a foreign agent on the grounds that it is 'apolitical'.</p>

<p>"We are convinced that this decision will have a negative impact on the preservation of the unique nature of our country and believe it should be reversed," the signatories said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/countdown-begins-for-isros-largest-lvm3-rocket-launch-575613">Countdown begins for ISRO's largest LVM3 rocket launch</a></p>

<p>This year's Earth Hour is important, especially after a year of devastating extreme weather events, and energy crisis based on fossil dependencies and constantly changing political priorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Earth Hour was first observed in 2007, more than two million Sydney homes turned off their lights to send a message to all of humanity.</p>

<p>WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-on-a-diplomatic-blitz-as-ukraine-war-rages-peace-plan-too-vague-to-make-a-difference-wion-575604">China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? | WION</a></p>

<p>One year later, 370 communities across 35 nations, spanning 18 time zones, participated. In 2014, many iconic places such as the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Colosseum in Rome, the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, and the Eiffel Tower in Paris were among the famous sites that were left in the dark for one hour.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russia's position towards several of the major international organisations has only become more rigid as a result of the war in Ukraine. In a recent statement, Russia refused its participation in this year's Earth Hour and called the country's World Wildlife Fund (WWF) branch a "foreign agent.

Russia's position towards several of the major international organisations has only become more rigid as a result of the war in Ukraine. In a recent statement, Russia refused its participation in this year's Earth Hour and called the country's World Wildlife Fund (WWF) branch a "foreign agent." Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, stated to reporters, "This year, we have decided to refrain from participating in this action. This is due precisely to the fact that (the organisers) have become foreign agents." Also Read | Apple supplier snubs China as talks move for second India factory What is Earth Hour? The WWF Earth Hour is the largest global climate and environmental protection campaign uniting people to take action on environmental issues and protect the planet. On Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 8:30 p.m., individuals are encouraged to turn out the lights in their homes for one hour in observance of Earth Hour. Earlier on March 10, in another such instance, the Justice Ministry of Russia branded the WWF's Russian branch a "foreign agent". However, no further clarity was provided by the Russian government. Moscow failed to specify the reason for such a designation. Let alone justification, Russia also did not say anything as to which nation was funding the WWF. The Russian branch of the WWF deemed the designation of a "foreign agent" as "unjustified" and said that it would work to get it reversed in court. This month, more than 60 environmental organisations signed a petition asking Russian President Vladimir Putin to remove the WWF's designation as a foreign agent on the grounds that it is 'apolitical'. "We are convinced that this decision will have a negative impact on the preservation of the unique nature of our country and believe it should be reversed," the signatories said. Also Read | Countdown begins for ISRO's largest LVM3 rocket launch This year's Earth Hour is important, especially after a year of devastating extreme weather events, and energy crisis based on fossil dependencies and constantly changing political priorities. When Earth Hour was first observed in 2007, more than two million Sydney homes turned off their lights to send a message to all of humanity. WATCH | China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? | WION One year later, 370 communities across 35 nations, spanning 18 time zones, participated. In 2014, many iconic places such as the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Colosseum in Rome, the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, and the Eiffel Tower in Paris were among the famous sites that were left in the dark for one hour. (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.

Russia to skip Earth Hour 2023, designates WWF a foreign agent

China recently published a 12-point position paper that called for urgent peace talks and a political settlement to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In Moscow, Putin & the Chinese president pledged friendship, but the talks yielded no breakthrough on Ukraine. However, the Russian President said China's peace plan could be basis for peace in Ukraine. In the coming week, Spain's Prime Minister will meet with Xi Jinping in Beijing.

China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? | WION

<p>The initial upper hand gained by the Russian forces in Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city which Moscow has spent months trying to capture, seems to have fizzled out as Kyiv’s counteroffensive has been successful in stalling the advances made by Kremlin.</p>

<p>On Friday, Ukraine's commander in chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi said in a Facebook post that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”.</p>

<p>Acknowledging that the situation on Ukraine's frontlines "is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction”, Lt Gen Zaluzhnyi said that due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation".</p>

<p>He posted on the social media network after briefing the UK's Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, about the situation in Ukraine.</p>

<p>In recent months, the eastern city has become the centre of the biggest battle between Russia and Ukraine. For Moscow, Bakhmut is a key target in its plans to fully capture the industrialised eastern region of Donbas.</p>

<p>However, the long-drawn-out war yielded little results for the Russian offensive despite losing thousands of troops.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the commander of Ukraine’s ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, claimed that Russian forces were "exhausted" near Bakhmut, reports BBC.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia Ukraine War | Russian assault losing steam in Bakhmut: Kyiv</strong></h2>

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<p>He added that Russia is “losing significant strength", though it "has not given up hope of taking Bakhmut at all costs despite losses in manpower and equipment”.</p>

<p>"Very soon we will take advantage of this opportunity, like we did near Kyiv, Kharkiv, Balakliya and Kupiansk," he was quoted as saying, referring to successful Ukrainian counter-offensives last year.</p>

<p>However, despite Ukraine’s assertion that Moscow’s attack was flagging near Bakhmut, the Russian forces launched new assaults in the northern and southern stretches of the front in the Donbas region.</p>

<p>Heavy fighting was reported in the northern sector along a stretch of front running from Lyman to Kupiansk as well as in the south at Avdiivka on the outskirts of the Russian-held city of Donetsk.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4"><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

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The initial upper hand gained by the Russian forces in Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city which Moscow has spent months trying to capture, seems to have fizzled out as Kyiv’s counteroffensive has been successful in stalling the advances made by Kremlin.

The initial upper hand gained by the Russian forces in Bakhmut, the Ukrainian city which Moscow has spent months trying to capture, seems to have fizzled out as Kyiv’s counteroffensive has been successful in stalling the advances made by Kremlin. On Friday, Ukraine's commander in chief Lt Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi said in a Facebook post that the situation in the eastern city is “stabilising”. Acknowledging that the situation on Ukraine's frontlines "is the toughest in the Bakhmut direction”, Lt Gen Zaluzhnyi said that due to the “tremendous efforts” of the Ukrainian forces “we are managing to stabilise the situation". He posted on the social media network after briefing the UK's Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, about the situation in Ukraine. In recent months, the eastern city has become the centre of the biggest battle between Russia and Ukraine. For Moscow, Bakhmut is a key target in its plans to fully capture the industrialised eastern region of Donbas. However, the long-drawn-out war yielded little results for the Russian offensive despite losing thousands of troops. On Thursday, the commander of Ukraine’s ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, claimed that Russian forces were "exhausted" near Bakhmut, reports BBC. Russia Ukraine War | Russian assault losing steam in Bakhmut: Kyiv He added that Russia is “losing significant strength", though it "has not given up hope of taking Bakhmut at all costs despite losses in manpower and equipment”. "Very soon we will take advantage of this opportunity, like we did near Kyiv, Kharkiv, Balakliya and Kupiansk," he was quoted as saying, referring to successful Ukrainian counter-offensives last year. However, despite Ukraine’s assertion that Moscow’s attack was flagging near Bakhmut, the Russian forces launched new assaults in the northern and southern stretches of the front in the Donbas region. Heavy fighting was reported in the northern sector along a stretch of front running from Lyman to Kupiansk as well as in the south at Avdiivka on the outskirts of the Russian-held city of Donetsk. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian troops losing momentum in Bakhmut battle as Ukraine puts up strong defence

In pics | Ukraine ramps up production for 'game-changer' drone fleet

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday condemned British plans to send tank ammunition that contains depleted uranium to Ukraine, saying Moscow would be forced to respond accordingly.

All about UK's depleted Uranium transfer

The Russia Ukraine war still rages on, the Ukrainian forces are claiming that the Russian offensive is now losing steam and that they have left the town of Nova Kakhovka in Sothern Kherson city.

Russia Ukraine War | Russian assault losing steam in Bakhmut: Kyiv

<p><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></p>

<p>Russian missiles struck a humanitarian support centre in an eastern Ukraine town early Friday, killing five people, emergency services said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The town of Kostyantynivka came under rocket fire during the night of March 24. One of the rockets hit a single-storey building," the emergency services said on Telegram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of those killed, three were women and two were men, the services informed. The latest attack comes as Moscow's forces push to capture the industrial Donetsk region.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops are preparing to launch a counterattack as Russia's offensive begins to falter, a commander said. But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that without a faster supply of arms the war could last years.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian military said early on Friday that 1,020 Russian troops had been killed over the previous 24 hours. Moscow's troops had launched unsuccessful attacks on the towns of Lyman, Avdiivka, Mariinka, and Shakhtarske, the military said. But their main focus was still the mining town of Bakhmut.</p>

<p>"The enemy has not stopped its assault of Bakhmut," Ukraine's General Staff said in a report.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian missiles struck a humanitarian support centre in an eastern Ukraine town early Friday, killing five people, emergency services said. "The town of Kostyantynivka came under rocket fire during the night of March 24. One of the rockets hit a single-storey building," the emergency services said on Telegram. Of those killed, three were women and two were men, the services informed. The latest attack comes as Moscow's forces push to capture the industrial Donetsk region. Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops are preparing to launch a counterattack as Russia's offensive begins to falter, a commander said. But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that without a faster supply of arms the war could last years. The Ukrainian military said early on Friday that 1,020 Russian troops had been killed over the previous 24 hours. Moscow's troops had launched unsuccessful attacks on the towns of Lyman, Avdiivka, Mariinka, and Shakhtarske, the military said. But their main focus was still the mining town of Bakhmut. "The enemy has not stopped its assault of Bakhmut," Ukraine's General Staff said in a report. (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.

Russian rockets fired on east Ukraine town kill 5 in humanitarian support centre, says Kyiv

Russia has said the the risk of a Nuclear clash was at its highest level in decades. Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, said this and warned that Moscow was in a de-facto war with Washington over the Ukraine crisis. The Russian Deputy Foreign Minister further said that Russia is committed to keeping the world "safe and free" from the threat of a nuclear war.

Russia-Ukraine War: Risk of Nuclear clash is at highest level in decades

Xi Jinping is back in China, Fumio Kishida has flown back to Japan and all the high-diplomacy talks are over, so what is happening on the ground? Has the wind shifted or is it still the same? Watch the video to know more.

High-level talks over, war continues: Missile slammed into apartment building in Zaporizhzhia

<p>Former Russian president and a staunch Putin-ally Dmitry Medvedev&nbsp;warned on Thursday (March 23) that any attempt to arrest President Vladimir Putin will be considered&nbsp;as a declaration of war against Russia. He was speaking with Russian journalists.</p>

<p>While his interaction with journalists, including&nbsp;those from state news agency TASS, Medvedev said Ukraine was part of "Greater Russia," and added that he saw no prospects for reviving Russia's ties with the West in the near future. Medvedev is now deputy chairman of Russia's security council.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Risk of nuclear clash is at highest level in decades</strong></p>

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<p>The International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague recently issued an arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin for war crimes in connection with deportation of Ukrainian children during the raging conflict in Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Russian side has vehemently rejected the warrant and has raised questions on its legality.</p>

<p>Medvedev on Thursday, said that the threat of nuclear conflict was growing and that the nuclear parity with the US and their allies and even Russia’s superiority guarantees its integrity although West strives to break the country up.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-hasnt-crossed-line-to-provide-russia-lethal-aid-says-top-us-diplomat-blinken-574827">China hasn't 'crossed line' to provide Russia 'lethal aid,' says top US diplomat Blinken</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensives. However, Ukrainian forces are facing Russian pressure especially around the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Former Russian president and a staunch Putin-ally Dmitry Medvedev warned on Thursday (March 23) that any attempt to arrest President Vladimir Putin will be considered as a declaration of war against Russia.

Former Russian president and a staunch Putin-ally Dmitry Medvedev warned on Thursday (March 23) that any attempt to arrest President Vladimir Putin will be considered as a declaration of war against Russia. He was speaking with Russian journalists. While his interaction with journalists, including those from state news agency TASS, Medvedev said Ukraine was part of "Greater Russia," and added that he saw no prospects for reviving Russia's ties with the West in the near future. Medvedev is now deputy chairman of Russia's security council. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Risk of nuclear clash is at highest level in decades × The International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague recently issued an arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin for war crimes in connection with deportation of Ukrainian children during the raging conflict in Ukraine. The Russian side has vehemently rejected the warrant and has raised questions on its legality. Medvedev on Thursday, said that the threat of nuclear conflict was growing and that the nuclear parity with the US and their allies and even Russia’s superiority guarantees its integrity although West strives to break the country up. Also Read | China hasn't 'crossed line' to provide Russia 'lethal aid,' says top US diplomat Blinken Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24 last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensives. However, Ukrainian forces are facing Russian pressure especially around the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine (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 ×

Any attempt to arrest Putin will be declaration of war, says former Russian president Medvedev

US secretary of state Antony Blinken has warned that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has a “profound impact” on Asia, saying that China is watching “very carefully” how Washington and the world respond to Vladimir Putin’s war.

Ukraine war has ‘profound impact’ on Asia, says US secretary of state Antony Blinken

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Antagonised by US-South Korea military drills, North Korea again fires multiple cruise missiles, Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery will take several years, can cost $411 billion.

New Zealand government to help heartbroken teens recover; Moderna under fire | Trending on WION

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has returned to the front line near Bakhmut where fighting has raged for months. The devastated city has long been a focal point of the war as Russian forces try to revive their military campaign in the east.

Ukraine war: Zelensky visits front line near Bakhmut as Russia targets cities

The International Monetary Fund said on Tuesday it had reached a staff-level agreement with Ukraine for a four-year financing package worth about $15.6 billion, offering funds the country needs as it continues to defend against Russia's invasion.

IMF staff reaches agreement with Ukraine for $15.6 bln program

Is Pakistan betraying China? Reports say, Pakistan is secretly sending weapons to Ukraine. Has Islamabad dropped its veneer of neutrality? Will China & Russia punish Pak? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Pak secretly sending weapons to Ukraine | Will Russia & China punish Pak?

<p>The Indonesian island of Bali has witnessed an uptick in the number of Russian and Ukrainian tourists since the beginning of what Moscow has described as its “special military operation” in Kyiv. The reports of bad behaviour and criminal activities allegedly committed by Russian and Ukrainian tourists include overstaying their visas, working illegally as hairdressers, unauthorised tour guides and taxi drivers, reported CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incidents have reportedly prompted Bali Governor Wayan Koster to propose that a visa-on-arrival policy for visitors from the two aforementioned countries be terminated. “I have written a letter to the ministries (Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry and Law and Human Rights Ministry) requesting that the visa facility be revoked for Russians and Ukrainians”, said Koster, as per local media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Indonesian government, nearly 60,000 Russians visited Bali in 2022 after it lifted its Covid-related restrictions while 22,500 people from Russia have arrived on the island since the beginning of this year alone. On the other hand, over 7,000 Ukrainians arrived in 2022 while some 2,500 came to Bali in the first month of this year, reported CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indonesia allows citizens of&nbsp;certain countries including Russia and Ukraine to apply for a visa on arrival&nbsp;in the country, while others have to apply before departure. Meanwhile, the country’s Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said that the number of tourists from Russia and Ukraine “who have...caused problems is not yet significant”. He added,&nbsp;that any plans to change visa rules must be “carefully reviewed” and will be discussed with all the stakeholders.</p>

<p>While the reports of misbehaving tourists are not necessarily new in Bali, it seems as though Balinese authorities wish to make an example out of the tourists from the two countries, as per CNN. “Why these two countries? Because they are at war so they flock here,” Koster had said in a news conference previously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by Bloomberg, Indonesia has deported some 47 people from the popular tourist destination amid a crackdown on foreigners for misusing their visas to work, out of which 13 were Russians.&nbsp;Reports also suggest that the Bali government is planning to ban tourists from renting motorcycles following a series of road accidents. Notably, in January, a Ukrainian and Russian visitor died in a vehicle collision.</p>

<p>According to local media reports, Koster has announced a province-wide crackdown on misbehaving foreigners which includes driving without a licence, not wearing a helmet, or driving dangerously. Furthermore, the Bali police, last week also launched a five-day special operation where over 475 police personnel will closely monitor foreigners in Bali. The officials have also reportedly assured that well-behaved visitors to Bali have nothing to worry about.&nbsp;</p>

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The Indonesian island of Bali has witnessed an uptick in the number of Russian and Ukrainian tourists since the beginning of what Moscow has described as its “special military operation” in Kyiv.

The Indonesian island of Bali has witnessed an uptick in the number of Russian and Ukrainian tourists since the beginning of what Moscow has described as its “special military operation” in Kyiv. The reports of bad behaviour and criminal activities allegedly committed by Russian and Ukrainian tourists include overstaying their visas, working illegally as hairdressers, unauthorised tour guides and taxi drivers, reported CNN. The incidents have reportedly prompted Bali Governor Wayan Koster to propose that a visa-on-arrival policy for visitors from the two aforementioned countries be terminated. “I have written a letter to the ministries (Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry and Law and Human Rights Ministry) requesting that the visa facility be revoked for Russians and Ukrainians”, said Koster, as per local media reports. According to the Indonesian government, nearly 60,000 Russians visited Bali in 2022 after it lifted its Covid-related restrictions while 22,500 people from Russia have arrived on the island since the beginning of this year alone. On the other hand, over 7,000 Ukrainians arrived in 2022 while some 2,500 came to Bali in the first month of this year, reported CNN. Indonesia allows citizens of certain countries including Russia and Ukraine to apply for a visa on arrival in the country, while others have to apply before departure. Meanwhile, the country’s Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said that the number of tourists from Russia and Ukraine “who have...caused problems is not yet significant”. He added, that any plans to change visa rules must be “carefully reviewed” and will be discussed with all the stakeholders. While the reports of misbehaving tourists are not necessarily new in Bali, it seems as though Balinese authorities wish to make an example out of the tourists from the two countries, as per CNN. “Why these two countries? Because they are at war so they flock here,” Koster had said in a news conference previously. According to a report by Bloomberg, Indonesia has deported some 47 people from the popular tourist destination amid a crackdown on foreigners for misusing their visas to work, out of which 13 were Russians. Reports also suggest that the Bali government is planning to ban tourists from renting motorcycles following a series of road accidents. Notably, in January, a Ukrainian and Russian visitor died in a vehicle collision. According to local media reports, Koster has announced a province-wide crackdown on misbehaving foreigners which includes driving without a licence, not wearing a helmet, or driving dangerously. Furthermore, the Bali police, last week also launched a five-day special operation where over 475 police personnel will closely monitor foreigners in Bali. The officials have also reportedly assured that well-behaved visitors to Bali have nothing to worry about. (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.

Bali mulls over terminating visa-on-arrival for Russians, Ukrainians. Here’s why

<p>The European Union (EU) and the US reached into their pockets again on Monday (March 20)&nbsp;to agree to provide millions and billions to help Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia. The development came on the same day Chinese President Xi Jinping met his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The EU ministers have agreed on a two-billion-euro plan to jointly purchase artillery shells for Ukraine. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the US made the announcement of USD 350 million in fresh&nbsp;military aid. This would include ammunition for Himars rocket launchers and Bradley armoured fighting vehicles.</p>

<p>Defence and foreign ministers of the EU met in Brussels and backed an initiative that aims to provide Ukraine with one million shells in the next 12 months as well as replenish EU stocks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping</strong></p>

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<p>Ukraine has long complained that its soldiers have been forced to ration firepower as the war with Russia has transformed into one of attrition.</p>

<p>The Ukraine government welcomed the European Union's new armaments initiative.</p>

<p>"We are grateful to the EU for approving a plan to purchase ammunition for Ukraine for 2 billion euros. This is a very strong step to protect European security," the Ukrainian presidential administration's chief of staff Andriy Yermak said on social media.</p>

<p>The United States announced USD 350 million in military aid.</p>

<p>"Russia alone could end its war today. Until Russia does, we will stand united with Ukraine for as long as it takes," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.</p>

<p>The fresh help has come from funds already committed by the US Congress. The military aid includes ammunition for Howitzers, anti-tank weapons and HARM&nbsp;missiles that target electronic transmissions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As Russia's unconscionable war of aggression against Ukraine continues at a great human cost, we are again reminded of the boundless courage and steadfast resolve of the Ukrainian people, and the strong support for Ukraine across the international community," Blinken said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European Union (EU) and the US reached into their pockets again on Monday (March 20) to agree to provide millions and billions to help Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia.

The European Union (EU) and the US reached into their pockets again on Monday (March 20) to agree to provide millions and billions to help Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia. The development came on the same day Chinese President Xi Jinping met his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The EU ministers have agreed on a two-billion-euro plan to jointly purchase artillery shells for Ukraine. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the US made the announcement of USD 350 million in fresh military aid. This would include ammunition for Himars rocket launchers and Bradley armoured fighting vehicles. Defence and foreign ministers of the EU met in Brussels and backed an initiative that aims to provide Ukraine with one million shells in the next 12 months as well as replenish EU stocks. Watch | Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping × Ukraine has long complained that its soldiers have been forced to ration firepower as the war with Russia has transformed into one of attrition. The Ukraine government welcomed the European Union's new armaments initiative. "We are grateful to the EU for approving a plan to purchase ammunition for Ukraine for 2 billion euros. This is a very strong step to protect European security," the Ukrainian presidential administration's chief of staff Andriy Yermak said on social media. The United States announced USD 350 million in military aid. "Russia alone could end its war today. Until Russia does, we will stand united with Ukraine for as long as it takes," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. The fresh help has come from funds already committed by the US Congress. The military aid includes ammunition for Howitzers, anti-tank weapons and HARM missiles that target electronic transmissions. "As Russia's unconscionable war of aggression against Ukraine continues at a great human cost, we are again reminded of the boundless courage and steadfast resolve of the Ukrainian people, and the strong support for Ukraine across the international community," Blinken said. (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 ×

While Xi meets Putin, West loosens purse strings to help Ukraine

<p>The Ukrainian military has claimed that “multiple” Russian cruise missiles were destroyed while being transported by train to Crimea.</p>

<p>A statement by the Ukrainian military posted on its website said that multiple Kalibr cruise missiles were destroyed in the explosion.&nbsp;Though it did not mention whether Ukraine was responsible for the attack, the statement said that it serves to further “demilitarise Russia and prepare the Crimean peninsula for de-occupation.”&nbsp;Hence, it is widely implied that the Kyiv government might be behind it.</p>

<p>It said that the missiles were being carried by rail and were destined for submarine launch.</p>

<p>A video shared on Twitter by Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine’s interior ministry, appeared to show a train station in the city being hit by a loud single, fiery blast.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian cruise missiles "Kalibr NK" were destroyed in Dzhankoi, Crimea, during their transportation by rail - <a href="https://twitter.com/DI_Ukraine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DI_Ukraine</a><br />
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It is reported that this video is from Dzhankoi. The voice says it's the train station area. <a href="https://t.co/9UXMe2aKNR">pic.twitter.com/9UXMe2aKNR</a></p>
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1637926667019591680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Russian-appointed governor of Crimea, Sergei Askyonov, confirmed that there was a strike in the northern Dzhankoi town and added that the region’s air defence system was activated. One person was injured and two buildings were damaged, he said.</p>

<p>Dzhankoi houses a Russian military base. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly claimed that the city and its surrounding areas have been turned into Russia’s largest military base in Crimea.</p>

<p>“An explosion in Dzhankoi city in the north of temporarily occupied Crimea destroyed Russian Kalibr-KN cruise missiles as they were being transported by rail,” Ukraine defence ministry’s main intelligence directorate said on Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-china-argue-at-unsc-washington-accuses-moscow-beijing-of-encouraging-nkorea-missile-launches-574065">US, Russia, China argue at UNSC; Washington accuses Moscow, Beijing of 'encouraging' N.Korea missile launches</a></p>

<p>It claimed that the missiles were intended to be used for Russia’s Black Sea fleet, and had an operational range of more than 2,500km (1,550 miles) on land and 375km at sea.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/while-xi-meets-putin-west-loosens-purse-strings-to-help-ukraine-574005">While Xi meets Putin, West loosens purse strings to help Ukraine</a></p>

<p>Crimea serves as an important port and a major naval base for Russia’s Black Sea fleet in the city of Sevastopol. According to CNN, some of Russia’s most important warships have been docked there, including surface ships&nbsp;equipped&nbsp;with cruise missiles.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The Ukrainian military has claimed that “multiple” Russian cruise missiles were destroyed while being transported by train to Crimea. A statement by the Ukrainian military posted on its website said that multiple Kalibr cruise missiles were destroyed in the explosion.

The Ukrainian military has claimed that “multiple” Russian cruise missiles were destroyed while being transported by train to Crimea. A statement by the Ukrainian military posted on its website said that multiple Kalibr cruise missiles were destroyed in the explosion. Though it did not mention whether Ukraine was responsible for the attack, the statement said that it serves to further “demilitarise Russia and prepare the Crimean peninsula for de-occupation.” Hence, it is widely implied that the Kyiv government might be behind it. It said that the missiles were being carried by rail and were destined for submarine launch. A video shared on Twitter by Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine’s interior ministry, appeared to show a train station in the city being hit by a loud single, fiery blast. Russian cruise missiles "Kalibr NK" were destroyed in Dzhankoi, Crimea, during their transportation by rail - @DI_Ukraine It is reported that this video is from Dzhankoi. The voice says it's the train station area. pic.twitter.com/9UXMe2aKNR — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) March 20, 2023 × The Russian-appointed governor of Crimea, Sergei Askyonov, confirmed that there was a strike in the northern Dzhankoi town and added that the region’s air defence system was activated. One person was injured and two buildings were damaged, he said. Dzhankoi houses a Russian military base. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly claimed that the city and its surrounding areas have been turned into Russia’s largest military base in Crimea. “An explosion in Dzhankoi city in the north of temporarily occupied Crimea destroyed Russian Kalibr-KN cruise missiles as they were being transported by rail,” Ukraine defence ministry’s main intelligence directorate said on Monday. Also read | US, Russia, China argue at UNSC; Washington accuses Moscow, Beijing of 'encouraging' N.Korea missile launches It claimed that the missiles were intended to be used for Russia’s Black Sea fleet, and had an operational range of more than 2,500km (1,550 miles) on land and 375km at sea. Also read | While Xi meets Putin, West loosens purse strings to help Ukraine Crimea serves as an important port and a major naval base for Russia’s Black Sea fleet in the city of Sevastopol. According to CNN, some of Russia’s most important warships have been docked there, including surface ships equipped with cruise missiles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia’s Kalibr cruise missiles destroyed in Crimea explosion, Ukraine’s role suspected

<p>Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year.</p>

<p>Kishida expressed strong "indignation" during his visit to Bucha. "As I step foot in Bucha today, and witness all the brutality that took place here, I have a strong sentiment of indignation," he stated in translated remarks.</p>

<p>Later in the day,&nbsp;Kishida laid a wreath&nbsp;at the memorial for fallen Ukrainian soldiers in&nbsp;Kyiv city centre, accompanied by an honour guard.</p>

<p>Kishida arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Japanese media reported after the foreign ministry announced his surprise visit to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Earlier today, public broadcaster NHK stated Kishida "could be seen getting off a train at a station in the centre of Kyiv", where he is likely to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ja">キーウ中心部にある駅では、日本時間の21日夜、岸田総理大臣が列車から駅のホームに降りる姿が確認できました。<br />
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岸田総理大臣はウクライナ政府の関係者とみられる人や現地に駐在する松田大使などの出迎えを受け、笑顔で会話する様子もみられました。<a href="https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ">https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nhk_video?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nhk_video</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPhZWOAvOm">pic.twitter.com/NPhZWOAvOm</a></p>
— NHKニュース (@nhk_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/nhk_news/status/1638126506386890752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Representing Japan, which is among the democracies present in the Group of Seven, Kishida will voice his solidarity with Ukraine following Russia's invasion more than a year ago, said the foreign ministry in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-cease-to-exist-warns-pm-fumio-kishida-aide-as-birthrate-plummets-to-record-levels-569234">Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels</a></p>

<p>The Japanese PM will convey "his respect for the courage and perseverance of the Ukrainian people standing up to defend their homeland," it stated.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the foreign ministry of Ukraine on Tuesday welcomed Kishida's arrival in Kyiv, hailing his "historic" visit as a key show of solidarity.</p>

<p>"This historic visit is a sign of solidarity and strong cooperation between (Ukraine and Japan). We are grateful to Japan for its strong support and contribution to our future victory," said First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ja">Ми раді вітати в <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%A3%D0%BA%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%97%D0%BD%D1%96?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Україні</a> Прем'єр-міністра <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%AF%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%96%D1%97?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Японії</a> Кішіду Фуміо <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kishida230</a>.<br />
Цей історичний візит є проявом солідарності та плідної співпраці між 🇺🇦 &amp; 🇯🇵.<br />
Ми вдячні Японії за потужну підтримку та внесок у нашу майбутню перемогу.<br />
ようこそ <a href="https://t.co/xaXFrySYcw">pic.twitter.com/xaXFrySYcw</a></p>
— Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmineDzheppar/status/1638138172226904067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Japan is set to host the G7 summit in Hiroshima in May, and previously Kishida said that the summit must show its strong will to uphold rule of law and international order in response to the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Kishida and Modi hail role of India-Japan ties in securing Indo-Pacific</strong></p>

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<p>NHK shared the footage of the Japanese PM holding talks with the officials as he stood next to a train. He reached Kyiv after boarding a train from Przemysl, a border town in Poland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kishida is also scheduled to hold talks with his Polish counterpart before flying back to Japan on Thursday, said the ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before departing for Poland en route to Ukraine, Kishida made an official visit to India where he held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for 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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Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday reached Bucha, the region where Russian forces faced accusation of massacring Ukrainian civilians during their Kyiv-region suburb's weeks-long occupation last year. Kishida expressed strong "indignation" during his visit to Bucha. "As I step foot in Bucha today, and witness all the brutality that took place here, I have a strong sentiment of indignation," he stated in translated remarks. Later in the day, Kishida laid a wreath at the memorial for fallen Ukrainian soldiers in Kyiv city centre, accompanied by an honour guard. Kishida arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Japanese media reported after the foreign ministry announced his surprise visit to Ukraine. Earlier today, public broadcaster NHK stated Kishida "could be seen getting off a train at a station in the centre of Kyiv", where he is likely to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. キーウ中心部にある駅では、日本時間の21日夜、岸田総理大臣が列車から駅のホームに降りる姿が確認できました。 岸田総理大臣はウクライナ政府の関係者とみられる人や現地に駐在する松田大使などの出迎えを受け、笑顔で会話する様子もみられました。https://t.co/0ImIFQ04nZ#nhk_video pic.twitter.com/NPhZWOAvOm — NHKニュース (@nhk_news) March 21, 2023 × Representing Japan, which is among the democracies present in the Group of Seven, Kishida will voice his solidarity with Ukraine following Russia's invasion more than a year ago, said the foreign ministry in a statement. ALSO READ | Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels The Japanese PM will convey "his respect for the courage and perseverance of the Ukrainian people standing up to defend their homeland," it stated. Meanwhile, the foreign ministry of Ukraine on Tuesday welcomed Kishida's arrival in Kyiv, hailing his "historic" visit as a key show of solidarity. "This historic visit is a sign of solidarity and strong cooperation between (Ukraine and Japan). We are grateful to Japan for its strong support and contribution to our future victory," said First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar on Twitter. Ми раді вітати в #Україні Прем'єр-міністра #Японії Кішіду Фуміо @kishida230. Цей історичний візит є проявом солідарності та плідної співпраці між 🇺🇦 & 🇯🇵. Ми вдячні Японії за потужну підтримку та внесок у нашу майбутню перемогу. ようこそ pic.twitter.com/xaXFrySYcw — Emine Dzheppar (@EmineDzheppar) March 21, 2023 × Japan is set to host the G7 summit in Hiroshima in May, and previously Kishida said that the summit must show its strong will to uphold rule of law and international order in response to the Russia-Ukraine war. WATCH | Kishida and Modi hail role of India-Japan ties in securing Indo-Pacific NHK shared the footage of the Japanese PM holding talks with the officials as he stood next to a train. He reached Kyiv after boarding a train from Przemysl, a border town in Poland. Kishida is also scheduled to hold talks with his Polish counterpart before flying back to Japan on Thursday, said the ministry. Before departing for Poland en route to Ukraine, Kishida made an official visit to India where he held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine war | Japan PM Kishida visits Bucha in Ukraine

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