Russia vowed to 'destroy' the dozens of Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets that Poland and Slovakia have pledged to send to Ukraine in the coming days. The Kremlin said the fighter jets would be 'destroyed' before insisting that the deployment of Western arms - including warplanes and tanks - would not change the course of the war. Slovakia also approved a plan to send its fleet of 13 MiG-29s to Ukraine.

Slovakia, Poland to donate MiG-29 jets to Ukraine

A Chinese-made commercial drone said to be weaponised, called Mugin-5, was shot down by the Ukrainian military in the eastern part of the country over the weekend.

The wreckage of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) — made by a Chinese manufacturer based in the eastern port city of Xiamen — was found near the city of Sloviansk, eastern Ukraine.

Known as the “Alibaba drones”, tech bloggers say they are available for sale for up to $15,000 on Chinese marketplace websites, including Alibaba and Taobao.

Mugin Limited, the company which manufactures the drone, confirmed that it belongs to them, and called the incident “deeply unfortunate”.

Though it is unclear whether it was used for snooping but reports alleged that it had no camera. CNN claimed that the drone was retrofitted with 20 kg&nbsp;bomb, which was later detonated by Ukrainian soldiers.

This incident marks the latest example of a civilian drone being retrofitted and weaponised since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, indicating the rapidly shifting patterns of warfare.

The incident was reported overnight Friday into Saturday, when the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) were alerted by their agents based in Russian-held territory of a UAV being launched from there and heading towards a Ukrainian target, according to CNN.

<h2>Rupee inches to replace dollar in global trade; 18 countries agree on rupee-trade mechanism</h2>

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The SBU then contacted the military units in eastern Ukraine, near the city of Sloviansk. Around 2 am on Saturday, the fighters from the 111th Brigade of the Territorial Defence Forces of Ukraine heard the drone&nbsp;and&nbsp;saw a faint light from the aircraft.

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“From the sound, from the signal light, the troops fired a lot at it and knocked down the UAV,” Maksim, a 35-year-old territorial defence fighter, told CNN.

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He said that the UAV was flying at a very low altitude and it was drought down using AK-47 automatic weapons.

"This particular drone that we’ve been looking at would be much more effective if it had a decent camera in it. This seems to be a very crude, unsophisticated, not very technologically&nbsp;advanced way of conducting operations,” Chris Lincoln-Jones, a specialist in drone warfare, was quoted as saying by CNN.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A Chinese-made commercial drone said to be weaponised, called Mugin-5, was shot down by the Ukrainian military in the eastern part of the country over the weekend.

A Chinese-made commercial drone said to be weaponised, called Mugin-5, was shot down by the Ukrainian military in the eastern part of the country over the weekend. The wreckage of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) — made by a Chinese manufacturer based in the eastern port city of Xiamen — was found near the city of Sloviansk, eastern Ukraine. Known as the “Alibaba drones”, tech bloggers say they are available for sale for up to $15,000 on Chinese marketplace websites, including Alibaba and Taobao. Mugin Limited, the company which manufactures the drone, confirmed that it belongs to them, and called the incident “deeply unfortunate”. Though it is unclear whether it was used for snooping but reports alleged that it had no camera. CNN claimed that the drone was retrofitted with 20 kg bomb, which was later detonated by Ukrainian soldiers. This incident marks the latest example of a civilian drone being retrofitted and weaponised since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, indicating the rapidly shifting patterns of warfare. The incident was reported overnight Friday into Saturday, when the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) were alerted by their agents based in Russian-held territory of a UAV being launched from there and heading towards a Ukrainian target, according to CNN. Rupee inches to replace dollar in global trade; 18 countries agree on rupee-trade mechanism The SBU then contacted the military units in eastern Ukraine, near the city of Sloviansk. Around 2 am on Saturday, the fighters from the 111th Brigade of the Territorial Defence Forces of Ukraine heard the drone and saw a faint light from the aircraft. Also read | Leaked document reveals Russia's secret plans to destabilise neighbour Moldova “From the sound, from the signal light, the troops fired a lot at it and knocked down the UAV,” Maksim, a 35-year-old territorial defence fighter, told CNN. Also read | As Omicron keeps evolving, WHO updates how it tracks, names new Covid variants He said that the UAV was flying at a very low altitude and it was drought down using AK-47 automatic weapons. "This particular drone that we’ve been looking at would be much more effective if it had a decent camera in it. This seems to be a very crude, unsophisticated, not very technologically advanced way of conducting operations,” Chris Lincoln-Jones, a specialist in drone warfare, was quoted as saying by CNN. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Chinese-made retrofitted, weaponised drone shot down by Ukrainian forces

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the challenge posed by China prompted Britain to publish an updated defence strategy this week, as the country tries to balance external threats against financial constraints at home. VOA’s Jessica Stone gives us more insights.

WION-VOA Co-Production: Britain updates defence strategy

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, on Friday (March 17) awarded the two pilots who were involved in intercepting a United States MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea amid Moscow’s ongoing “special military operation” in Ukraine. This comes after the US has previously accused Russia of an “unsafe” and “unprofessional” intercept of its MQ-9 Reaper surveillance drone which eventually crashed in the Black Sea on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Russian military has said that they scrambled the air defence unit jets after detecting the US drone but has denied causing the crash and said that the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) had lost control, a claim the US disputed. While repeating its version of the events, the Russian ministry announced the awards on Friday.&nbsp;

“As a result of sharp manoeuvring around 9:30 am (Moscow time), the MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicle went into uncontrolled flight with a loss of altitude and collided with the water surface,” said the Russian military in a statement, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

The defence minister Shoigu presented the awards to the two Su-27 pilots for “preventing” the US drone from “violating” international airspace restrictions placed by Moscow amid what it describes as its “special military operation” in Ukraine, reported The Moscow Times.&nbsp;

The statement added, “The drone flew with its transponders off, violating the boundaries of the area of the temporary airspace usage regime established for the special military operation (and) communicated to all users of international airspace.”&nbsp;

The US military, which also released a 42-second video on Thursday of the incident said that the drone was on a routine mission when it was intercepted over the Black Sea in international airspace. It also alleged that the fighter jets dumped fuel on the drone during the encounter that lasted 30-40 minutes before one of MQ-9 Reaper drone’s&nbsp;propellers got damaged and it crashed into the sea.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, on Friday (March 17) awarded the two pilots who were involved in intercepting a United States MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea amid Moscow’s ongoing “special military operation” in Ukraine.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, on Friday (March 17) awarded the two pilots who were involved in intercepting a United States MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea amid Moscow’s ongoing “special military operation” in Ukraine. This comes after the US has previously accused Russia of an “unsafe” and “unprofessional” intercept of its MQ-9 Reaper surveillance drone which eventually crashed in the Black Sea on Tuesday. The Russian military has said that they scrambled the air defence unit jets after detecting the US drone but has denied causing the crash and said that the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) had lost control, a claim the US disputed. While repeating its version of the events, the Russian ministry announced the awards on Friday. “As a result of sharp manoeuvring around 9:30 am (Moscow time), the MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicle went into uncontrolled flight with a loss of altitude and collided with the water surface,” said the Russian military in a statement, as per Reuters. The defence minister Shoigu presented the awards to the two Su-27 pilots for “preventing” the US drone from “violating” international airspace restrictions placed by Moscow amid what it describes as its “special military operation” in Ukraine, reported The Moscow Times. The statement added, “The drone flew with its transponders off, violating the boundaries of the area of the temporary airspace usage regime established for the special military operation (and) communicated to all users of international airspace.” The US military, which also released a 42-second video on Thursday of the incident said that the drone was on a routine mission when it was intercepted over the Black Sea in international airspace. It also alleged that the fighter jets dumped fuel on the drone during the encounter that lasted 30-40 minutes before one of MQ-9 Reaper drone’s propellers got damaged and it crashed into the sea. (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 defence minister honours pilots involved in downing of US drone over Black Sea

Does Joe Biden have a 'Plan B' for Ukraine? American Journalist Seymour Hersh says U.S. could directly delve into the war soon. Is there any merit to his claims? Mohammed Saleh reports.

Gravitas: Here's America's 'Plan B' for Ukraine

Slovakia's Prime Minister Eduard Heger said on Friday (March 17) that his government has approved sending 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine. Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Heger said, "Slovak government just approved sending 13 MiG-29s to Ukraine! Promises must be kept and when Zelensky asked for more weapons, including fighter jets, I said we'll do our best. Glad others are doing the same. Military aid is to ensure that Ukraine can defend itself and the entire Europe against Russia."

Addressing a press conference, Heger also said that his government would deliver a Kub air defence system to Ukraine, the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-to-send-ukraine-four-mig-29-fighter-jets-becomes-first-nato-nation-to-do-so-572727">Poland to send Ukraine four MiG-29 fighter jets, becomes first NATO nation to do so</a>

Slovakia is the second North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member country to send warplanes to Ukraine. A day back, Poland said that it would send an initial batch of four MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Slovak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Slovak</a> gov. just approved sending 13 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiG29s?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiG29s</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>! Promises must be kept&amp;when <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> asked for more <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/weapons?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#weapons</a> incl. fighter jets, I said we’ll do our best. Glad others’re doing the same. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Military?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Military</a> aid’s🔑to ensure🇺🇦can defend itself&amp;the entire <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Europe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Europe</a> against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a>
— Eduard Heger (@eduardheger) <a href="https://twitter.com/eduardheger/status/1636656042057539584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Speaking to reporters, Polish President Andrzej Duda said, "In the coming days we will first transfer, if I remember correctly, four fully operational planes to Ukraine." Duda added that Poland currently has a dozen or so MiG planes that it inherited from the German Democratic Republic, which they are on the verge of sending to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-as-the-war-in-ukraine-rages-on-will-2023-be-the-year-of-defence-companies-556570">Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies?</a>

"These MiGs are still in service in Poland's air force. They're in their last years of operation but are still for the most part in full working order," the president said. He also pointed out that these MiGs are jets that Ukrainian pilots can operate today without any additional training, AFP further reported.&nbsp;

Reacting to Poland's decision, a Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson told the news agency that Kyiv was "grateful to our partners." 
 
"MiGs will not solve the tasks, we need F-16s. But MiGs will help to strengthen our capabilities indeed," air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat said.

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Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in February last year, Ukraine has repeatedly asked its Western allies to send warplanes — although seeking primarily modern US-made F-16s — but so far no Western countries had committed to giving jets to Kyiv.

On Thursday, the US said it was informed about Poland's decision to send warplanes to the war-torn country. However, the White House said that Warsaw's move does not change Washington's decision against sending its warplanes to Ukraine.&nbsp;

"It doesn't change our calculus with regards to F16s," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Thursday.&nbsp;

<h2>Polish, Slovak jets sent to Ukraine will be destroyed: Kremlin</h2>

The Kremlin on Friday reacted to Poland and Slovak's decision to send warplanes to Ukraine. The Kremlin said that such fighter jets would be destroyed, and reiterated that Western arms deliveries to Kyiv would not change Moscow's military aims.

"The supply of this military equipment -- as we have repeatedly said -- will not change the outcome of the special military operation... Of course, all this equipment will be destroyed," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said during a press conference.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Slovakia's Prime Minister Eduard Heger said on Friday (March 17) that his government has approved sending 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine. Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Heger said, "Slovak government just approved sending 13 MiG-29s to Ukraine!

Slovakia's Prime Minister Eduard Heger said on Friday (March 17) that his government has approved sending 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine. Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Heger said, "Slovak government just approved sending 13 MiG-29s to Ukraine! Promises must be kept and when Zelensky asked for more weapons, including fighter jets, I said we'll do our best. Glad others are doing the same. Military aid is to ensure that Ukraine can defend itself and the entire Europe against Russia." Addressing a press conference, Heger also said that his government would deliver a Kub air defence system to Ukraine, the news agency AFP reported. ALSO READ | Poland to send Ukraine four MiG-29 fighter jets, becomes first NATO nation to do so Slovakia is the second North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member country to send warplanes to Ukraine. A day back, Poland said that it would send an initial batch of four MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine. #Slovak gov. just approved sending 13 #MiG29s to #Ukraine! Promises must be kept&when @ZelenskyyUa asked for more #weapons incl. fighter jets, I said we’ll do our best. Glad others’re doing the same. #Military aid’s🔑to ensure🇺🇦can defend itself&the entire #Europe against #Russia — Eduard Heger (@eduardheger) March 17, 2023 × Speaking to reporters, Polish President Andrzej Duda said, "In the coming days we will first transfer, if I remember correctly, four fully operational planes to Ukraine." Duda added that Poland currently has a dozen or so MiG planes that it inherited from the German Democratic Republic, which they are on the verge of sending to Ukraine. ALSO READ | Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies? "These MiGs are still in service in Poland's air force. They're in their last years of operation but are still for the most part in full working order," the president said. He also pointed out that these MiGs are jets that Ukrainian pilots can operate today without any additional training, AFP further reported. Reacting to Poland's decision, a Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson told the news agency that Kyiv was "grateful to our partners." "MiGs will not solve the tasks, we need F-16s. But MiGs will help to strengthen our capabilities indeed," air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat said. ALSO READ | Xi set to visit Russia from March 20-22, Kremlin confirms Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in February last year, Ukraine has repeatedly asked its Western allies to send warplanes — although seeking primarily modern US-made F-16s — but so far no Western countries had committed to giving jets to Kyiv. On Thursday, the US said it was informed about Poland's decision to send warplanes to the war-torn country. However, the White House said that Warsaw's move does not change Washington's decision against sending its warplanes to Ukraine. "It doesn't change our calculus with regards to F16s," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Thursday. Polish, Slovak jets sent to Ukraine will be destroyed: Kremlin The Kremlin on Friday reacted to Poland and Slovak's decision to send warplanes to Ukraine. The Kremlin said that such fighter jets would be destroyed, and reiterated that Western arms deliveries to Kyiv would not change Moscow's military aims. "The supply of this military equipment -- as we have repeatedly said -- will not change the outcome of the special military operation... Of course, all this equipment will be destroyed," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said during a press conference. (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.

After Poland, Slovakia to send 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine; Kremlin reacts

Former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are emerging as leading rivals for the Republican presidential nomination. But when it comes to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, they are united in arguing that stopping the aggression isn't a vital U.S. strategic interest.

War in Ukraine divides Republicans

It has been weeks since China proposed a 12-point plan for peace in Ukraine. Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to soon visit Russia & meet with Vladimir Putin. Reportedly, they are going to hold a virtual meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Will China be able to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine after its success with Saudi Arabia & Iran?

Can China broker peace between Russia and Ukraine after its success with Saudi Arabia & Iran?

Russian hackers appear to be preparing a renewed wave of cyber attacks against Ukraine, including a "ransomware-style" threat to organizations serving Ukraine's supply lines, a research report by Microsoft said on Wednesday.

New Russian attack cyberattack on Ukraine: Reports

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that last year's blasts on the Nord Stream gas pipelines had been carried out on a state level, dismissing the idea an autonomous pro-Ukraine group was responsible as "complete nonsense". Putin further questioned Germany's silence on the Nord Stream blast.

Putin rejects claims about Ukrainian role in Nord Stream blasts, says 'it's complete nonsense’

Has Ukraine become a testing ground for new-age Russian weapons? A viral video shows flaming munitions falling down in Ukraine's Vuhledar. What were they? Mohammed Saleh explains.

Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons

In pics | Iran releases images of reverse-engineered US drones

Over 8 Million people have fled Ukraine taking along with them the future of the country, Ukraine's economy is tanking, and Russia is closing in. Who is responsible for the destruction of Ukraine? Putin or Zelensky?

Gravitas: The Battle for Bakhmut & the destruction of Ukraine

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is mulling opening two war crime cases against the Russian side. The first case pertains to Russia's alleged abduction of Ukrainian children while the second puts Russia in the box for unrelenting targeting of Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is mulling opening two war crime cases against the Russian side. The first case pertains to Russia's alleged abduction of Ukrainian children while the second puts Russia in the box for unrelenting targeting of Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. This will be the first instance since the war broke out that international charges will be pressed. Experts suggest it could set a precedent for future trials and isolate Russia diplomatically on the global map. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly claimed that many of its missing children have been abducted by Russia. Kremlin has not denied the accusation, albeit presenting it as a humanitarian campaign to protect the orphans present in the conflict areas. The decision to file the case comes in the backdrop of ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan visiting Ukraine last month and batting for Ukraine. “There seems to be a lot of damage in Ukraine, and it may well be it is part of a policy and part of a plan and we need to get to the bottom of it and see whether or not there is criminal responsibility and if there is we have an International Criminal Court that has jurisdiction to look into it,” Khan told the reporters. Gravitas Plus: Explained: The Battle for Bakhmut While ICC attempts to start a legal battle, Moscow has indicated that it will not be entertaining arrest warrants against any of its officials. The country withdrew its membership from ICC in 2016. Konstantin Kosachyov, deputy speaker of Russia's upper house said the agency did not have any jurisdiction over the country. "The ICC is an instrument of neo-colonialism in the hands of the West," he said. Read more: Ukraine, Russia claim hundreds of rival casualties in battle of Bakhmut The Russian invasion of Ukraine has been ongoing for over a year now. The make-or-break fight is in the eastern region with the city of Bakhmut under siege. Putin has focused his attention on the city which has witnessed one of the bloodiest infantry battles since World War II. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

International Criminal Court mulls opening war crime cases against Russia for Ukraine invasion

Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Monday (March 13) that the country was open for discussions to provide fighter jets to Ukraine. Kyiv has urged the West to provide F-16 fighter jets but this specific demand has not led to enthusiastic replies. Countries like Germany have categorigally denied any such likelihood.

While Finland is currently operating a fleet of F/A-18 Hornet jets, it announced in December 2021 that it was ordering 64 F-35A multi-role fighter jets from US contractor Lockheed Martin.

"We have new F35 fighters coming... When these old Hornets are decommissioned, we can discuss their future use," Prime Minister Sanna Marin told reporters Monday.

However, while Finland plans to replace the jets -- the model of which entered into production in the 1980s -- the new aircraft are not due to arrive until 2025.

Since the start of the Ukraine war, Western states have provided weapons and other aid to Ukraine which has helped it turn the tide. But Western countries are not in favour of providing fighter jets to Ukraine for the fear of escalation of tensions with nuclear-armed Russia. &nbsp;

But experts have noted that red lines in other areas have shifted, including the initial opposition to delivering heavy tanks which was dropped in January.

While some European nations have softened in their stance even on fighter jets, US President Joe Biden declared in an interview with ABC News in February that Ukraine "doesn't need F-16s now".

Marin already sparked controversy at home when she told reporters that she was open to discussing the matter during a visit to Kyiv on Friday.

"I think we can have a discussion about the Hornets, whether it would be possible to hand them over to Ukraine, and what kind of training they might need alongside them," she said.

"No decisions have been made," Marin stressed and added that such an initiative would need international cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Monday (March 13) that the country was open for discussions to provide fighter jets to Ukraine. Kyiv has urged the West to provide F-16 fighter jets but this specific demand has not led to enthusiastic replies.

Finland Prime Minister Sanna Marin said on Monday (March 13) that the country was open for discussions to provide fighter jets to Ukraine. Kyiv has urged the West to provide F-16 fighter jets but this specific demand has not led to enthusiastic replies. Countries like Germany have categorigally denied any such likelihood. While Finland is currently operating a fleet of F/A-18 Hornet jets, it announced in December 2021 that it was ordering 64 F-35A multi-role fighter jets from US contractor Lockheed Martin. "We have new F35 fighters coming... When these old Hornets are decommissioned, we can discuss their future use," Prime Minister Sanna Marin told reporters Monday. However, while Finland plans to replace the jets -- the model of which entered into production in the 1980s -- the new aircraft are not due to arrive until 2025. Since the start of the Ukraine war, Western states have provided weapons and other aid to Ukraine which has helped it turn the tide. But Western countries are not in favour of providing fighter jets to Ukraine for the fear of escalation of tensions with nuclear-armed Russia. But experts have noted that red lines in other areas have shifted, including the initial opposition to delivering heavy tanks which was dropped in January. While some European nations have softened in their stance even on fighter jets, US President Joe Biden declared in an interview with ABC News in February that Ukraine "doesn't need F-16s now". Marin already sparked controversy at home when she told reporters that she was open to discussing the matter during a visit to Kyiv on Friday. "I think we can have a discussion about the Hornets, whether it would be possible to hand them over to Ukraine, and what kind of training they might need alongside them," she said. "No decisions have been made," Marin stressed and added that such an initiative would need international cooperation. (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 ×

Finland open to discuss donating fighter jets to Ukraine: PM

Moldovan Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatii said on Monday (March 13) that the country is not in "imminent military danger" but is subject to "hybrid warfare generated by Russia" which would try to "overthrow state power." The minister was speaking with AFP.

Anatolie Nosatii sat down for an interview with AFP at his office in Chisinau, after the latest in a string of anti-government protests erupted over the weekend in the small ex-Soviet nation.&nbsp;

"Imminent military danger against Moldova currently doesn't exist, but there are other types of dangers that affect the country's security -- hybrid warfare," Nosatii told AFP.

Nosatii said that Russia was generating disinformation and creating tensions in Moldovan society to "change the political order, destabilise and overthrow state power"

Pro-European Moldova has repeatedly accused Moscow of plotting to violently topple its government through saboteurs disguised as anti-government protesters, claims which Russia denied.

"The greatest challenge right now is a set of provocations that the Russian Federation is trying to use to destabilise the situation."&nbsp;

On Sunday, Moldovan police arrested members of a network seeking to undermind the country they suspected of being orchestrated by Moscow.

Authorities said they had acted after "receiving information on the organisation by Russian special services of destabilising actions on our territory via demonstrations".

The White House on Friday accused Russia of seeking to destabilise Moldova in order to install a pro-Russian government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Moldovan Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatii said on Monday (March 13) that the country is not in "imminent military danger" but is subject to "hybrid warfare generated by Russia" which would try to "overthrow state power.

Moldovan Defence Minister Anatolie Nosatii said on Monday (March 13) that the country is not in "imminent military danger" but is subject to "hybrid warfare generated by Russia" which would try to "overthrow state power." The minister was speaking with AFP. Anatolie Nosatii sat down for an interview with AFP at his office in Chisinau, after the latest in a string of anti-government protests erupted over the weekend in the small ex-Soviet nation. "Imminent military danger against Moldova currently doesn't exist, but there are other types of dangers that affect the country's security -- hybrid warfare," Nosatii told AFP. Nosatii said that Russia was generating disinformation and creating tensions in Moldovan society to "change the political order, destabilise and overthrow state power" Pro-European Moldova has repeatedly accused Moscow of plotting to violently topple its government through saboteurs disguised as anti-government protesters, claims which Russia denied. "The greatest challenge right now is a set of provocations that the Russian Federation is trying to use to destabilise the situation." On Sunday, Moldovan police arrested members of a network seeking to undermind the country they suspected of being orchestrated by Moscow. Authorities said they had acted after "receiving information on the organisation by Russian special services of destabilising actions on our territory via demonstrations". The White House on Friday accused Russia of seeking to destabilise Moldova in order to install a pro-Russian government. (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 ×

Moldova doesn't face 'imminent' danger from Russia: defence minister

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey&nbsp;Vershinin&nbsp;has said that Russia was ready to extend Black Sea grain deal. However, he said the extension will only be of 60 days.

"The Russian side... does not object to another extension of the 'Black Sea Initiative' after its second term expiration on March 18, but only for 60 days," he said in a statement issued by the Russian mission in Geneva following the negotiations at the UN's Palais des Nations.

"Our further stance will be determined upon the tangible progress on normalisation of our agricultural exports, not (in) words, but in deeds."

"It includes bank payments, transport logistics, insurance, 'unfreezing' of financial activities and ammonia supplies via the Tolyatti-Odessa pipeline."

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. This had disrupted the grain export from Ukraine which is also referred to as 'bread basket of the world'. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis due to grain shortage.

The United Nations and Turkey had brokered a deal which, for some time let shipments of Ukrainian grain pass unimpeded through the Black Sea.

The initial 120-day agreement was extended once in November, and was due to expire on March 18, and the Kremlin had cast doubt on whether it would agree to a fresh extension, claiming that the twin deal on Russian exports was not being respected.

The latest signals from the Russian side may indicate softening of Russian stance. But it is premature to say at this point that the deal is fully restored.

More than 24.1 million tonnes have been exported under the UN and Turkey-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI), according to the United Nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin has said that Russia was ready to extend Black Sea grain deal. However, he said the extension will only be of 60 days.

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin has said that Russia was ready to extend Black Sea grain deal. However, he said the extension will only be of 60 days. "The Russian side... does not object to another extension of the 'Black Sea Initiative' after its second term expiration on March 18, but only for 60 days," he said in a statement issued by the Russian mission in Geneva following the negotiations at the UN's Palais des Nations. "Our further stance will be determined upon the tangible progress on normalisation of our agricultural exports, not (in) words, but in deeds." "It includes bank payments, transport logistics, insurance, 'unfreezing' of financial activities and ammonia supplies via the Tolyatti-Odessa pipeline." Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 last year. This had disrupted the grain export from Ukraine which is also referred to as 'bread basket of the world'. This had raised the spectre of a global food crisis due to grain shortage. The United Nations and Turkey had brokered a deal which, for some time let shipments of Ukrainian grain pass unimpeded through the Black Sea. The initial 120-day agreement was extended once in November, and was due to expire on March 18, and the Kremlin had cast doubt on whether it would agree to a fresh extension, claiming that the twin deal on Russian exports was not being respected. The latest signals from the Russian side may indicate softening of Russian stance. But it is premature to say at this point that the deal is fully restored. More than 24.1 million tonnes have been exported under the UN and Turkey-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI), according to the United Nations. (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 ready to extend Black Sea grain deal, but for 60 days: Deputy FM

Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus reached the fourth round at Indian Wells by walkover on Sunday as Ukrainian qualifier Lesia Tsurenko pulled out of their scheduled match. Organisers said Tsurenko cited "personal reasons" for yet another withdrawal.

No further details were given, and there was no indication that the Russian invasion of Ukraine last year -- which has resulted in Russian and Belarusian tennis players from being barred from competing under their national flags -- was a factor. Indeed, Tsurenko has now lost by retirement or walkover in nine of her 18 tournaments dating back to Indian Wells last year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-wade-ormsby-wins-fourth-asian-tour-title-with-international-series-thailand-victory-571228">Australia's Wade Ormsby wins fourth Asian Tour title with International Series Thailand victory</a>

She gave up a semi-final walkover at Canberra this year and gave up quarter-final walkovers at Eastbourne and Portoroz, Slovenia, last year. Sabalenka, whose first Grand Slam title in Melbourne was part of a perfect 13-0 start to the year that ended in the quarter-finals at Dubai, had breezed into the third round with a 6-2, 6-0 victory over Evgeniya Rodina.

She next faces former French Open winner Barbora Krejcikova, who ousted China's Wang Xinyu 6-2, 6-7 (1/7), 6-2. Krejcikova beat the top three players in the world on the way to the title in Dubai last month, climbing 14 places in the WTA rankings to 16th.

Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus reached the fourth round at Indian Wells by walkover on Sunday as Ukrainian qualifier Lesia Tsurenko pulled out of their scheduled match.

Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus reached the fourth round at Indian Wells by walkover on Sunday as Ukrainian qualifier Lesia Tsurenko pulled out of their scheduled match. Organisers said Tsurenko cited "personal reasons" for yet another withdrawal. No further details were given, and there was no indication that the Russian invasion of Ukraine last year -- which has resulted in Russian and Belarusian tennis players from being barred from competing under their national flags -- was a factor. Indeed, Tsurenko has now lost by retirement or walkover in nine of her 18 tournaments dating back to Indian Wells last year. Also Read: Australia's Wade Ormsby wins fourth Asian Tour title with International Series Thailand victory She gave up a semi-final walkover at Canberra this year and gave up quarter-final walkovers at Eastbourne and Portoroz, Slovenia, last year. Sabalenka, whose first Grand Slam title in Melbourne was part of a perfect 13-0 start to the year that ended in the quarter-finals at Dubai, had breezed into the third round with a 6-2, 6-0 victory over Evgeniya Rodina. She next faces former French Open winner Barbora Krejcikova, who ousted China's Wang Xinyu 6-2, 6-7 (1/7), 6-2. Krejcikova beat the top three players in the world on the way to the title in Dubai last month, climbing 14 places in the WTA rankings to 16th.

Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko withdraws from match vs Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka citing 'personal reasons'

Russian advances seem to have stalled in Ukraine's Bakhmut city for now. Leading Washington-based think tank has said there are no confirmed advances by Russian forces in Bakhmut.

Russian advances stall in Bakhmut?

Washington-based think tank says Russian assault has stalled | Battle of Bakhmut

UK Defence Ministry says difficult for Russia to sustain Bakhmut assault | Battle of Bakhmut

The United Kingdom Defence Ministry in the latest has said that Bakhmut has become a 'killing zone', that has become highly challenging for Russia's Wagner mercenary. In the latest, the Wagner Group forces has taken control of most of Eastern Bakhmut.

Russia Ukraine War: Battle for Bakhmut intensifies; Russian shelling kills Kherson residents

The anti-government protest in Czech Republic is not ignited by any domestic policy but because of the European nation's support to Ukraine amid Russian invasion and the economic fallout of this war. The protest adds to the evidence of growing exertion with the year-long war.

Protest in Czech Republic against military aid to Ukraine, protesters chant 'Stop War, Stop NATO'

The Bakhmut front has taken on significant importance in the conflict following Ukraine's Kharkiv and Kherson counteroffensives. According to Serhiy Cherevatyi, a military spokeswoman for Ukraine, 221 pro-Moscow forces were neutralised and more than 300 others were injured in Bakhmut. Russian defence ministry claims over 210 Ukrainian soldiers were allegedly killed along the wider Donetsk frontline. Meanwhile, a Swedish-Iranian dissident's death penalty was upheld by Iran's Supreme Court on Sunday. Sweden in a strong-worded statement has expressed its disapproval over the action.&nbsp;

Amoung other news, as outrage over the nation's worst rail accident rises, thousands of protesters organised new demonstrations in Greece on Sunday, increasing pressure on the government to address the disaster.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-claim-hundreds-of-casualties-in-battle-of-bakhmut-571034">Ukraine, Russia claim hundreds of rival casualties in battle of Bakhmut</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338143-russia.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Both Russia and Ukraine claimed heavy casualties of enemy troops running into hundreds in a day during the battle for the Bakhmut city in the eastern part of the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inhumane-sweden-condemns-iran-for-upholding-death-sentence-of-swedish-iranian-dissident-571187">'Inhumane': Sweden condemns Iran for upholding death sentence of Swedish-Iranian dissident</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338233-untitled-design-12.png?imwidth=1920" />

Sweden on Sunday condemned the death sentence confirmed by Iran's Supreme Court against a Swedish-Iranian dissident and said it was seeking further clarity on the matter, reported AFP news agency.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fresh-protests-break-out-in-greece-over-deadly-rail-crash-571172">Fresh protests break out in Greece over deadly rail crash</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338226-collage-maker-12-mar-2023-06-52-pm-7757.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Thousands of demonstrators staged fresh protests in Greece on Sunday as anger grows over the country's deadliest rail crash, ratcheting up pressure on the government over the tragedy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-oil-giant-aramco-reports-record-profit-of-1611-billion-in-2022-571141">Saudi oil giant Aramco's annual profit soars to record high in 2022</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338211-untitled-design-9.png?imwidth=1920" />

The Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco on Sunday announced its full-year 2022 financial results, reporting a record net income of $161.1 billion. This is its highest annual profit as a listed company. Aramco also declared a fourth-quarter dividend of $19.5 billion, to be paid in the first quarter of 2023.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-prisoner-swap-deal-reached-says-iranian-minister-571181">Iran-US prisoner swap deal reached, says Iranian minister</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/26116-us-iran-20170718083425.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told the country's state television on Sunday (March 12) that Iran and the United States have reached an agreement for a prisoner swap. He expressed hope that the prisoner exchange would take place soon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-years-on-since-covid-pandemic-who-chief-says-finding-origins-a-moral-imperative-571122">3 years on since COVID 'pandemic', WHO chief says finding origins a 'moral imperative'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338200-untitled-design-8.png?imwidth=1920" />

The World Health Organization (WHO) three years ago on 11 March 2020 declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic. However, its origins still remain unknown, even though many reports claim it is China's Wuhan province from where the virus originated.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2022-world-cup-host-qatar-spied-on-ex-swiss-prosecutor-amid-fifa-bid-concerns-report-571180">2022 FIFA World Cup host Qatar spied on ex-Swiss prosecutor amid bid concerns: Report</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338230-untitled-design-11.png?imwidth=1920" />

Qatar spied on a former Swiss attorney general's private meeting with the FIFA president and bugged him with the help of former CIA agents, as per reports. It was done because of concerns that the Gulf state may lose its bid to host the 2022 World Cup, AFP news agency reported citing media outlets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-inaugurates-worlds-longest-railway-platform-in-indian-state-of-karnataka-571160">Modi inaugurates world's longest railway platform in Indian state of Karnataka</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338221-untitled-design-10.png?imwidth=1920" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the world's longest railway platform of 1.5 kilometres at Sri Siddhaarooda railway station in Hubballi in the Indian state of Karnataka.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-opposes-same-sex-marriages-says-only-those-between-a-man-and-a-woman-the-norm-throughout-history-571127">Centre opposes same-sex marriages, says those between a man and a woman 'the norm throughout history'</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338192-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

As India's top court readies to hear a batch of pleas seeking validation for same-sex marriages, the nation's central government has submitted an affidavit opposing the step. The centre in its affidavit reportedly told the Supreme Court (SC) that same-sex relationships and heterosexual relationships are clearly distinct classes which cannot be treated identically.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-bailout-for-collapsed-silicon-valley-bank-says-us-government-571194">No bailout for collapsed Silicon Valley Bank, says US government</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/12/338179-00033ay2ky.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Sunday (March 12) ruled out a government bailout for the collapsed Silicon Valley Bank. Which she said that the government wanted to avoid a financial "contagion" from implosion of the bank, a bailout was out of the question.

&nbsp;

The Bakhmut front has taken on significant importance in the conflict following Ukraine's Kharkiv and Kherson counteroffensives. According to Serhiy Cherevatyi, a military spokeswoman for Ukraine, 221 pro-Moscow forces were neutralised and more than 300 others were injured in Bakhmut.

The Bakhmut front has taken on significant importance in the conflict following Ukraine's Kharkiv and Kherson counteroffensives. According to Serhiy Cherevatyi, a military spokeswoman for Ukraine, 221 pro-Moscow forces were neutralised and more than 300 others were injured in Bakhmut. Russian defence ministry claims over 210 Ukrainian soldiers were allegedly killed along the wider Donetsk frontline. Meanwhile, a Swedish-Iranian dissident's death penalty was upheld by Iran's Supreme Court on Sunday. Sweden in a strong-worded statement has expressed its disapproval over the action. Amoung other news, as outrage over the nation's worst rail accident rises, thousands of protesters organised new demonstrations in Greece on Sunday, increasing pressure on the government to address the disaster. Click on the headlines to read more: Ukraine, Russia claim hundreds of rival casualties in battle of Bakhmut Both Russia and Ukraine claimed heavy casualties of enemy troops running into hundreds in a day during the battle for the Bakhmut city in the eastern part of the country. 'Inhumane': Sweden condemns Iran for upholding death sentence of Swedish-Iranian dissident Sweden on Sunday condemned the death sentence confirmed by Iran's Supreme Court against a Swedish-Iranian dissident and said it was seeking further clarity on the matter, reported AFP news agency. Fresh protests break out in Greece over deadly rail crash Thousands of demonstrators staged fresh protests in Greece on Sunday as anger grows over the country's deadliest rail crash, ratcheting up pressure on the government over the tragedy. Saudi oil giant Aramco's annual profit soars to record high in 2022 The Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco on Sunday announced its full-year 2022 financial results, reporting a record net income of $161.1 billion. This is its highest annual profit as a listed company. Aramco also declared a fourth-quarter dividend of $19.5 billion, to be paid in the first quarter of 2023. Iran-US prisoner swap deal reached, says Iranian minister Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told the country's state television on Sunday (March 12) that Iran and the United States have reached an agreement for a prisoner swap. He expressed hope that the prisoner exchange would take place soon. 3 years on since COVID 'pandemic', WHO chief says finding origins a 'moral imperative' The World Health Organization (WHO) three years ago on 11 March 2020 declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic. However, its origins still remain unknown, even though many reports claim it is China's Wuhan province from where the virus originated. 2022 FIFA World Cup host Qatar spied on ex-Swiss prosecutor amid bid concerns: Report Qatar spied on a former Swiss attorney general's private meeting with the FIFA president and bugged him with the help of former CIA agents, as per reports. It was done because of concerns that the Gulf state may lose its bid to host the 2022 World Cup, AFP news agency reported citing media outlets. Modi inaugurates world's longest railway platform in Indian state of Karnataka Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the world's longest railway platform of 1.5 kilometres at Sri Siddhaarooda railway station in Hubballi in the Indian state of Karnataka. Centre opposes same-sex marriages, says those between a man and a woman 'the norm throughout history' As India's top court readies to hear a batch of pleas seeking validation for same-sex marriages, the nation's central government has submitted an affidavit opposing the step. The centre in its affidavit reportedly told the Supreme Court (SC) that same-sex relationships and heterosexual relationships are clearly distinct classes which cannot be treated identically. No bailout for collapsed Silicon Valley Bank, says US government US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Sunday (March 12) ruled out a government bailout for the collapsed Silicon Valley Bank. Which she said that the government wanted to avoid a financial "contagion" from implosion of the bank, a bailout was out of the question.

Top 10 world news: Ukraine, Russia claim hundreds of rival casualties in Bakhmut, and more

The Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco on Sunday announced its full-year 2022 financial results, reporting a record net income of $161.1 billion.&nbsp;

This is its highest annual profit as a listed company. Aramco also declared a fourth-quarter dividend of $19.5 billion, to be paid in the first quarter of 2023.

The results were underpinned by stronger crude oil prices, higher volumes sold and improved margins for refined products. The company in its statement said that it continues to strengthen its oil and gas production capacity to meet anticipated future demand.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1993-mumbai-blasts-30-years-on-a-scar-on-indian-city-that-still-cuts-deep-570949">1993 Mumbai blasts: 30 years on, scar of terror on Indian megacity still cuts deep</a>

Oil prices fluctuated significantly in 2022 against the backdrop of rising geopolitical concerns over the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;Aramco President &amp; CEO Amin H. Nasser said&nbsp;the company "delivered record financial performance in 2022, as oil prices strengthened due to increased demand around the world."

“Given that we anticipate oil and gas will remain essential for the foreseeable future, the risks of underinvestment in our industry are real — including contributing to higher energy prices," Aramco's chief executive added.&nbsp;

Aramco is also focusing on lower-carbon energy solutions with the launch of a $1.5 billion Sustainability Fund.&nbsp;Nasser said that the aim is not only on expanding oil, gas and chemicals production, but also investing in new lower-carbon technologies with the potential to achieve additional emission reductions, in the company's own operations and for end users of their products.

In order to maintain the market, the OPEC+ alliance, led by Saudi Arabia, decided last year to reduce supply by 2 million bpd from November until the end of 2023.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-visit-us-in-june-engagement-with-india-to-counter-china-571114">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit U.S. in June; engagement with India to counter China</a>

Although the United States and other Western nations harshly criticised the move, market dynamics since then have revealed that the cuts were smart given that oil prices are now hovering around $80 per barrel after reaching highs of over $100 in 2022. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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The Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco on Sunday announced its full-year 2022 financial results, reporting a record net income of $161.1 billion. This is its highest annual profit as a listed company.

The Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco on Sunday announced its full-year 2022 financial results, reporting a record net income of $161.1 billion. This is its highest annual profit as a listed company. Aramco also declared a fourth-quarter dividend of $19.5 billion, to be paid in the first quarter of 2023. The results were underpinned by stronger crude oil prices, higher volumes sold and improved margins for refined products. The company in its statement said that it continues to strengthen its oil and gas production capacity to meet anticipated future demand. Also Read | 1993 Mumbai blasts: 30 years on, scar of terror on Indian megacity still cuts deep Oil prices fluctuated significantly in 2022 against the backdrop of rising geopolitical concerns over the conflict in Ukraine. Aramco President & CEO Amin H. Nasser said the company "delivered record financial performance in 2022, as oil prices strengthened due to increased demand around the world." “Given that we anticipate oil and gas will remain essential for the foreseeable future, the risks of underinvestment in our industry are real — including contributing to higher energy prices," Aramco's chief executive added. Aramco is also focusing on lower-carbon energy solutions with the launch of a $1.5 billion Sustainability Fund. Nasser said that the aim is not only on expanding oil, gas and chemicals production, but also investing in new lower-carbon technologies with the potential to achieve additional emission reductions, in the company's own operations and for end users of their products. In order to maintain the market, the OPEC+ alliance, led by Saudi Arabia, decided last year to reduce supply by 2 million bpd from November until the end of 2023. Also Read | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit U.S. in June; engagement with India to counter China Although the United States and other Western nations harshly criticised the move, market dynamics since then have revealed that the cuts were smart given that oil prices are now hovering around $80 per barrel after reaching highs of over $100 in 2022. (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.

Saudi oil giant Aramco's annual profit soars to record high in 2022

Russian forces have made progress in their campaign to capture the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine - the focus of the war’s longest ground battle--- but their assault will be difficult to sustain without more significant personnel losses, this is according to British military officials. The U.K. Defense Ministry said in its latest assessment that military units from the kremlin-controlled Wagner group have seized most of eastern Bakhmut, with a river flowing through the city now marking the front line of the fighting. What does this advance by Russia mean for the war? WION's Eric Njoka speaks to Maj. John Spencer (Retd) who is the chairman of Urban Warfare Studies, Madison Policy Forum.

Determination by Russia to capture Bakhmut

Kyiv says Ukrainian forces have decided to fight on in the ruined city of Bakhmut because the battle is pinning down Russia's best units and degrading them ahead of a planned Ukrainian spring counter-offensive. While Wagner group claims is close to the center of the frontline hotspot of the eastern Ukrainian city.

Ukraine says Bakhmut battle is giving it an edge

Bakhmut remains the main target of Russia's winter push into Ukraine. Both Russian Reserve troops and mercenaries are attempting to siege the city. Russian forces have captured Eastern Bakhmut and outskirts of the North and South but they are still unable to close a ring around Ukrainian Defenders.

Ukraine President Zelensky leads tributes for fallen 'Da Vinci'

Also called 'hired guns', mercenaries are those who fight for money. #RussiaUkraineWar: With #Wagner playing a key role in #Bakhmut, how powerful is this cadre of fighters across the globe? Watch #WIONWideangle: Soldiers of Fortune @DanielLDavis1 #GlenGrant #LadaLRoslycky

WION Wideangle  | Soldiers of Fortune

Russia showered major cities across Ukraine with Kinzhal hypersonic cruise missiles as it unleashed its largest missile barrage against Kyiv in three weeks.

Russia launches Kinzhal hypersonic cruise missiles on Ukraine

Russia fired a huge wave of missiles across Ukraine on Thursday as people slept, killing at least nine civilians and knocking out power in an attack Kyiv said included six Kinzhal hypersonic cruise missiles, one of Moscow's most valuable weapons.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia kills civilians in first huge missile wave for weeks

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