The White House, commenting on the latest barrage of Russian missiles launched targeting Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, on Thursday called the attack "brutal" and "unjustified."

It is "devastating to see these brutal, unjustified attacks on civilian infrastructure across Ukraine," said Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton aboard Air Force One.

Russia on Thursday showered a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, in which six people were killed and the war-torn country faced a wave of power cuts, even at the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bakhmut-may-fall-into-russian-hands-in-coming-days-nato-chief-570005">Bakhmut may fall within days, must not underestimate Russia: NATO chief</a>

Giving a warning UN nuclear agency's chief said that next time "luck will run out" as he referred to the danger of repeated electricity outages at the Zaporizhzhia facility in Ukraine.

Russia said that the missile strikes were in response to the border incursion that happened earlier this month and expressed its doubt over the vital UN-brokered grain deal's extension, saying that its renewal will be discussed with the UN on Monday.

The missile attacks led to the first civilian deaths in the western Lviv region which was considered comparatively safe and far away from the front lines, as intense fighting continued in the town of Bakhmut in the east.

The shocked villagers living in Velyka Vilshanytsia, which is a small village outside Lviv, searched through the rubble as Ukrainian officials informed them that five people were killed by a Russian missile around 120 kilometres (75 miles) from the Polish border.

WATCH | Why battle of Bakhmut can define the endgame of Ukraine war?

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"We thought we were safe here," Oksana Ostapenko, a resident whose sister and two brothers-in-law died in the attack, said.

Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that two people suffered injuries on Thursday and 40 per cent of the population was in a black out for several hours.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House, commenting on the latest barrage of Russian missiles launched targeting Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, on Thursday called the attack "brutal" and "unjustified.

The White House, commenting on the latest barrage of Russian missiles launched targeting Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, on Thursday called the attack "brutal" and "unjustified." It is "devastating to see these brutal, unjustified attacks on civilian infrastructure across Ukraine," said Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton aboard Air Force One. Russia on Thursday showered a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, in which six people were killed and the war-torn country faced a wave of power cuts, even at the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe. ALSO READ | Bakhmut may fall within days, must not underestimate Russia: NATO chief Giving a warning UN nuclear agency's chief said that next time "luck will run out" as he referred to the danger of repeated electricity outages at the Zaporizhzhia facility in Ukraine. Russia said that the missile strikes were in response to the border incursion that happened earlier this month and expressed its doubt over the vital UN-brokered grain deal's extension, saying that its renewal will be discussed with the UN on Monday. The missile attacks led to the first civilian deaths in the western Lviv region which was considered comparatively safe and far away from the front lines, as intense fighting continued in the town of Bakhmut in the east. The shocked villagers living in Velyka Vilshanytsia, which is a small village outside Lviv, searched through the rubble as Ukrainian officials informed them that five people were killed by a Russian missile around 120 kilometres (75 miles) from the Polish border. WATCH | Why battle of Bakhmut can define the endgame of Ukraine war? "We thought we were safe here," Oksana Ostapenko, a resident whose sister and two brothers-in-law died in the attack, said. Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that two people suffered injuries on Thursday and 40 per cent of the population was in a black out for several hours. (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

White House calls latest barrage of Russian missile on Ukraine 'brutal, unjustified'

The chief of the Wagner mercenaries Yevgeny Prigozhin who has gone round prisons, recruiting convicts to fight on the battlefields of Ukraine has made the battle of Bakhmut a prestige issue. Recently, Yevgeny Prigozhin complained about not getting enough ammunition to fight. Prigozhin has also criticised the tactics employed by the regular Russian forces. So Prigozhin's reputation and his clout in Moscow hinges on the fate of Bakhmut.

Why battle of Bakhmut can define the endgame of Ukraine war?

Russian armed forces have targeted cities across Ukraine, including Kyiv, Odesa and Kharkiv. The missile strikes come as Ukrainian defenders continue to repel assaults on the beleaguered town of Bakhmut. The missiles hit a wide arc of targets, including cities stretching from Zhytomyr, Vynnytsia and Rivne in the west, to Dnipro and Poltava in central ukraine. Kyiv mayor flagged explosions in the south-western part of the town. Residents have reported power outages. The governor of Odesa region says a mass missile attack hit an energy facility in the port city, cutting power. As per the governor, Russia also targeted residential areas. Kharkiv region governor cited 15 strikes, with targets including infrastructure. Reports of Russian strikes have also emerged from the central city of Dnipro and regions throughout the country.

Russian missiles strike cities across Ukraine; Moscow targets key infra & energy sites | Details

A Czech company producing inflatable weapon decoys, including Himars rocket launchers and Abrams tanks, said Monday it had seen a spike in demand since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started last year. The synthetic silk decoys inflated with an electric or petrol blower are used to fool the enemy on the battlefield, making them target the air-filled decoys instead of real weaponry.

How the art of deception is playing out in Russia-Ukraine war

Ukraine has denied its involvement in the last year’s attack on Nord Stream pipelines in response to a New York Times (NYT) report.

“Although I enjoy collecting amusing conspiracy theories about (the Ukrainian) government, I have to say: (Ukraine) has nothing to do with the Baltic Sea mishap and has no information about ‘pro-(Ukraine) sabotage groups.’", tweeted Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The NYT, citing US intelligence officials had reported that a loyal Ukrainian group had carried out the attack independently of the Ukrainian government.

The exact cause of the blasts that took place on September 26 last year is unknown, but it is widely speculated that the Nord pipelines were deliberately targeted.

The US newspaper claimed that the US officials it cited declined to disclose the nature of the intelligence, how it was obtained or "any details of the strength of the evidence it contains".

"Officials who have reviewed the intelligence said they believed the saboteurs were most likely Ukrainian or Russian nationals, or some combination of the two,” it reported.

<h2>Ukraine denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines blast</h2>

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The blasts took place in the wake of Russia shutting down the Nord Stream 1 pipeline in August last year, claiming it needed maintenance. Another pipeline, the Nord Stream 2, was never put into service.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-sabotaged-by-pro-ukrainian-group-inconclusive-us-intelligence-569753">Nord Stream sabotaged by pro-Ukrainian group: Inconclusive US intelligence</a>

The blast had triggered a round of blame game between the West and Russia, with the latter calling on the UN's Security Council to independently investigate them.

Even before the blasts, Moscow had suspended gas deliveries through the pipeline after a series of sanctions announced by the West over its invasion of Ukraine.

German media claims to have located origin of boat used in blast

Meanwhile on Tuesday, the German newspaper Die Zeit reported that German authorities claimed to achieve a breakthrough in their investigation into the cause of the attacks.

According to joint research published by the paper and other German media organisations, the boat used to plant the explosives was a yacht hired from a firm based in Poland, which reportedly belonged to two Ukrainians. The nationalities of those who carried out the attack were unclear.

However, the paper says that the investigators have not yet found any evidence as to who ordered the destruction.

It also points out that there is still the possibility of a false flag operation which was intended to point towards Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine has denied its involvement in the last year’s attack on Nord Stream pipelines in response to a New York Times (NYT) report. “Although I enjoy collecting amusing conspiracy theories about (the Ukrainian) government, I have to say: (Ukraine) has nothing to do with the Baltic Sea mishap and has no information about ‘pro-(Ukraine) sabotage groups.

Ukraine has denied its involvement in the last year’s attack on Nord Stream pipelines in response to a New York Times (NYT) report. “Although I enjoy collecting amusing conspiracy theories about (the Ukrainian) government, I have to say: (Ukraine) has nothing to do with the Baltic Sea mishap and has no information about ‘pro-(Ukraine) sabotage groups.’", tweeted Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The NYT, citing US intelligence officials had reported that a loyal Ukrainian group had carried out the attack independently of the Ukrainian government. The exact cause of the blasts that took place on September 26 last year is unknown, but it is widely speculated that the Nord pipelines were deliberately targeted. The US newspaper claimed that the US officials it cited declined to disclose the nature of the intelligence, how it was obtained or "any details of the strength of the evidence it contains". "Officials who have reviewed the intelligence said they believed the saboteurs were most likely Ukrainian or Russian nationals, or some combination of the two,” it reported. Ukraine denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines blast The blasts took place in the wake of Russia shutting down the Nord Stream 1 pipeline in August last year, claiming it needed maintenance. Another pipeline, the Nord Stream 2, was never put into service. Also read | Nord Stream sabotaged by pro-Ukrainian group: Inconclusive US intelligence The blast had triggered a round of blame game between the West and Russia, with the latter calling on the UN's Security Council to independently investigate them. Even before the blasts, Moscow had suspended gas deliveries through the pipeline after a series of sanctions announced by the West over its invasion of Ukraine. German media claims to have located origin of boat used in blast Meanwhile on Tuesday, the German newspaper Die Zeit reported that German authorities claimed to achieve a breakthrough in their investigation into the cause of the attacks. According to joint research published by the paper and other German media organisations, the boat used to plant the explosives was a yacht hired from a firm based in Poland, which reportedly belonged to two Ukrainians. The nationalities of those who carried out the attack were unclear. However, the paper says that the investigators have not yet found any evidence as to who ordered the destruction. It also points out that there is still the possibility of a false flag operation which was intended to point towards Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines blast

Ukraine has denied any involvement in last September's attack on the Nord Stream pipelines, which carried Russian gas to Europe. Kyiv's remarks follow a report from the New York Times, which cites anonymous US intelligence officials who suggest a pro-Ukrainian group was to blame.

Ukraine has denied any involvement in September's attack on the Nord Stream pipelines, which were built to carry Russian natural gas to Germany. Watch this report to know more.

Kyiv denies involvement in Nord Stream pipelines sabotage

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the country's top military commanders have taken a vow to keep defending Bakhmut despite the "constant attacks" from Russian forces.

Ukraine vows to keep defending Bakhmut amid constant attacks by Russian forces

Both Russia and Ukraine are ramping up their offensive at the Bakhmut battlefield and building up their military troops in the region. As the battle grinds on, a new friction point was hit between the archrivals on Monday.

In a video that emerged online, a Ukrainian soldier was seen smoking in a trench, when a soldier who is believed to be Russian, was heard saying "die" and using a swear word. Seconds later, he shoots dead the Ukrainian soldier with automatic weapons.&nbsp;

The last words by Ukrainian soldier were "Glory to Ukraine!" before he falls into a shallow hole in the ground. The preliminary investigation revealed the Ukrainian soldier was Tymofiy Shadura.&nbsp;

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Note that I cut this video because of how gruesome the end of it is, but Americans need to see how inhumane and monstrous the Russians are in Ukraine. 
 
This brave Ukrainian soldier stood unarmed next to multiple Russian Soldiers. He said "Glory to Ukraine," as he took a drag of… <a href="https://t.co/aDv1F9Ono9">https://t.co/aDv1F9Ono9</a> <a href="https://t.co/wEiVOWIhIk">pic.twitter.com/wEiVOWIhIk</a>
— Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/krassenstein/status/1632846320451956737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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After the incident came to light, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky on Monday warned, "We will find the murderers."&nbsp;&nbsp;

During his video address, the president said, “I want us all together, in unity, to respond to his words: “Glory to the hero! Glory to heroes! Glory to Ukraine!”&nbsp;

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"A video appeared today showing how the occupiers brutally killed a soldier who bravely said to their face: "Glory to Ukraine!" I want us all together, in unity, to respond to his words: "Glory to the hero! Glory to heroes! Glory to Ukraine!" And we will find the killers." <a href="https://t.co/97fXSSjuME">pic.twitter.com/97fXSSjuME</a>
— NOËL 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) <a href="https://twitter.com/NOELreports/status/1632839632336322562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-lloyd-austin-visits-iraq-vows-defence-support-against-daesh-569575">US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin visits Iraq, vows defence support against Daesh</a>

The 30th Separate Mechanised Brigade in a statement said, the soldier was last seen on 3 February near the eastern city of Bakhmut. "Currently, the body of our serviceman is in the temporarily occupied territory."&nbsp;&nbsp;In a facebook post, it wrote, "The hero's brothers express sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Revenge will be irreversible."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/germany-planning-to-ban-huawei-zte-from-parts-of-5g-networks-paper-569540">Germany planning to ban Huawei, ZTE from parts of 5G networks: Paper</a>

Shadura's sister in conversation with a UK media outlet said, "My brother would certainly be capable of standing up to the Russians like that."&nbsp;

"He never hid the truth in his life and certainly wouldn't do so in front of the enemy."&nbsp;A criminal probe will be made into the killing, said Ukraine's chief prosecutor.&nbsp;

The video of the execution broke internet when netizens and supporters of Ukraine flooded the social media with artwork of the Ukrainian soldier.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Slava Ukraini! 💔🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/iZINgLUwvX">pic.twitter.com/iZINgLUwvX</a>
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1632824081878851585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-estonias-election-result-important-for-ukraine-569565">Why is Estonia's election result important for Ukraine?</a>

The identification of the killer could not be ascertained as he was not seen in the video that has now gone viral.&nbsp;Ukraine's armed forces has termed the shooting of the unarmed Ukrainian soldier "cynical and brazen" This is what worthless murderers do, not warriors, it added.&nbsp;

"The Russian occupiers have once again shown that their main goal in Ukraine is the brutal extermination of Ukrainians."

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Both Russia and Ukraine are ramping up their offensive at the Bakhmut battlefield and building up their military troops in the region. As the battle grinds on, a new friction point was hit between the archrivals on Monday.

Both Russia and Ukraine are ramping up their offensive at the Bakhmut battlefield and building up their military troops in the region. As the battle grinds on, a new friction point was hit between the archrivals on Monday. In a video that emerged online, a Ukrainian soldier was seen smoking in a trench, when a soldier who is believed to be Russian, was heard saying "die" and using a swear word. Seconds later, he shoots dead the Ukrainian soldier with automatic weapons. The last words by Ukrainian soldier were "Glory to Ukraine!" before he falls into a shallow hole in the ground. The preliminary investigation revealed the Ukrainian soldier was Tymofiy Shadura. Note that I cut this video because of how gruesome the end of it is, but Americans need to see how inhumane and monstrous the Russians are in Ukraine. This brave Ukrainian soldier stood unarmed next to multiple Russian Soldiers. He said "Glory to Ukraine," as he took a drag of… https://t.co/aDv1F9Ono9 pic.twitter.com/wEiVOWIhIk — Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) March 6, 2023 × After the incident came to light, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky on Monday warned, "We will find the murderers." During his video address, the president said, “I want us all together, in unity, to respond to his words: “Glory to the hero! Glory to heroes! Glory to Ukraine!” "A video appeared today showing how the occupiers brutally killed a soldier who bravely said to their face: "Glory to Ukraine!" I want us all together, in unity, to respond to his words: "Glory to the hero! Glory to heroes! Glory to Ukraine!" And we will find the killers." pic.twitter.com/97fXSSjuME — NOËL 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) March 6, 2023 × Also Read | US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin visits Iraq, vows defence support against Daesh The 30th Separate Mechanised Brigade in a statement said, the soldier was last seen on 3 February near the eastern city of Bakhmut. "Currently, the body of our serviceman is in the temporarily occupied territory." In a facebook post, it wrote, "The hero's brothers express sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Revenge will be irreversible." Also Read | Germany planning to ban Huawei, ZTE from parts of 5G networks: Paper Shadura's sister in conversation with a UK media outlet said, "My brother would certainly be capable of standing up to the Russians like that." "He never hid the truth in his life and certainly wouldn't do so in front of the enemy." A criminal probe will be made into the killing, said Ukraine's chief prosecutor. The video of the execution broke internet when netizens and supporters of Ukraine flooded the social media with artwork of the Ukrainian soldier. Slava Ukraini! 💔🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/iZINgLUwvX — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) March 6, 2023 × Watch | Why is Estonia's election result important for Ukraine? The identification of the killer could not be ascertained as he was not seen in the video that has now gone viral. Ukraine's armed forces has termed the shooting of the unarmed Ukrainian soldier "cynical and brazen" This is what worthless murderers do, not warriors, it added. "The Russian occupiers have once again shown that their main goal in Ukraine is the brutal extermination of Ukrainians." 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.

WATCH | 'Glory to Ukraine!' Last words by Ukrainian soldier shot by Russians

Ukraine has pledged to bolster its Defences in frontline Bakhmut that has become a symbolic prize in the war with Russia. The eastern Ukrainian city has been badly damaged during the longest and the bloodiest battle since Russia invaded Ukraine more than a year ago. Meanwhile Ukrainian president Volodymr Zelensky has asked the army to find forces to strengthen the Defences of the city

Ukraine vows not to give up on Bakhmut

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine will continue military operations to defend the embattled city of Bakhmut, which will be backed by senior generals.

Zelensky said he held discussions over Bakhmut with Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the country's ground forces, and Valery Zaluzhny, the head of Ukraine's armed forces, reported BBC.

"They spoke in favour of continuing the defensive operation and further strengthening our positions in Bakhmut," he said in a statement.

Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak reiterated the "consensus" in the Ukraine army to continue fighting for Bakhmut, a city which Russia is determined to capture.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ordinary-bureaucracy-or-a-betrayal-wagner-chief-says-without-fresh-ammunition-bakhmut-could-collapse-569053">'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse</a>

Bakhmut has witnessed the longest-running and bloodiest battle of the Russia-Ukraine war, even as analysts state that the city has little strategic significance.

"There is a consensus among the military on the need to continue defending the city and the attrition of enemy forces while building new lines and lines of defence in case the situation changes," Podolyak said.

As per Podolyak, their operations to defend Bakhmut has "achieved its goals" as it has exhausted Russia's "main combat-ready" units and provided the opportunity to train "tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops to prepare a counteroffensive."

He stated that "even if at some point the military leadership decides to withdraw to more advantageous positions", defending Bakhmut will be a "great strategic success" for the Ukrainian army.

"However, to date, no such decision has been made" by the military head, stated Podolyak.

Meanwhile, the head of Wagner's private army, which is fighting for Russia, said that it is not getting the required ammunition from Moscow, as it continues to make attempts to gain control of Bakhmut.

WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Wagner Group says, 'Two years till Donetsk capture'

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Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the lack of ammunition supply can be "ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal".

Earlier on Monday, Ukraine stated that the defences will be bolstered by Ukraine in the salt-mining city, where the two sides have suffered heavy losses.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine will continue military operations to defend the embattled city of Bakhmut, which will be backed by senior generals. Zelensky said he held discussions over Bakhmut with Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the country's ground forces, and Valery Zaluzhny, the head of Ukraine's armed forces, reported BBC.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine will continue military operations to defend the embattled city of Bakhmut, which will be backed by senior generals. Zelensky said he held discussions over Bakhmut with Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the country's ground forces, and Valery Zaluzhny, the head of Ukraine's armed forces, reported BBC. "They spoke in favour of continuing the defensive operation and further strengthening our positions in Bakhmut," he said in a statement. Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak reiterated the "consensus" in the Ukraine army to continue fighting for Bakhmut, a city which Russia is determined to capture. ALSO READ | 'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition, Bakhmut could collapse Bakhmut has witnessed the longest-running and bloodiest battle of the Russia-Ukraine war, even as analysts state that the city has little strategic significance. "There is a consensus among the military on the need to continue defending the city and the attrition of enemy forces while building new lines and lines of defence in case the situation changes," Podolyak said. As per Podolyak, their operations to defend Bakhmut has "achieved its goals" as it has exhausted Russia's "main combat-ready" units and provided the opportunity to train "tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops to prepare a counteroffensive." He stated that "even if at some point the military leadership decides to withdraw to more advantageous positions", defending Bakhmut will be a "great strategic success" for the Ukrainian army. "However, to date, no such decision has been made" by the military head, stated Podolyak. Meanwhile, the head of Wagner's private army, which is fighting for Russia, said that it is not getting the required ammunition from Moscow, as it continues to make attempts to gain control of Bakhmut. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Russia's Wagner Group says, 'Two years till Donetsk capture' Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that the lack of ammunition supply can be "ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal". Earlier on Monday, Ukraine stated that the defences will be bolstered by Ukraine in the salt-mining city, where the two sides have suffered heavy losses. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia-Ukraine war | Operations to defend embattled Bakhmut will go on, says Zelensky

As the Battle of Bakhmut rages on, Russia's Wagner mercenary Force Chief says that his men are being deprived of ammunition. He also says that if they are forced to retreat, the entire front line would collapse.

Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut

China has announced that its defence spending will increase by 7.2 percent. This would be its fastest rise in military spending in four decades. The announcement came as Beijing warned of escalating threats from abroad at its annual National People's Congress rubber stamp Parliament which is an important window into Beijing's policies.

China: Economy touted to grow at lowest rate, focus still on defence

With its victory in the parliamentary vote on Sunday, the Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas should maintain its position as one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv administrations. The results, which showed the far-right EKRE party in second place with 16.1% of the vote to Kallas' liberal party's 31.5%, reflect voter concerns over growing living expenses following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Estonia General Elections 2023: Prime Minister Kallas's party secures 31.6% in polls

Russian Defence Ministry said on Monday (March 6) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has visited Mariuopol, a city in southern Ukraine. His visit has come about a year after Russian forces besieged the city, levelling it to the ground.

Shoigu's visit came amid attacks by Russian forces closing in on Bakhmut, the city in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian and Russian forces are battling hard for control of the city.&nbsp;

The ministry said Shoigu, one of the highest-ranking officials to visit east Ukraine, had toured the destroyed port city of Mariupol to oversee reconstruction efforts.

Watch | Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut

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Shoigu "inspected work carried out by the... defence ministry to restore infrastructure in Donbas," the ministry said, without specifying the timing of the visit.

As per the ministry, Shoigu visited a medical centre built by the military alongwith a newly constructed district with a dozen five-story residential buildings.

Russia launched a scorched-earth campaign against Mariupol at the start of its campaign last year, destroying the Azovstal steel works, which was the last holdout of Ukraine forces in the city.

Investigative teams linked to jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny have reported that defence ministry officials are profiting personally from reconstruction efforts in Mariupol.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-govt-probing-171-cases-of-sexual-violence-committed-by-russian-troops-says-first-lady-zelenska-568628">Ukraine war: Govt probing 171 cases of sexual violence committed by Russian troops, says First Lady Zelenska</a>

The ministry's announcement comes one day after it said Shoigu had met with Russian soldiers deployed to a "command post in" eastern Ukraine.

Russia's gruelling effort to capture Bakhmut has been spearheaded on the ground by the Russian mercenary group Wagner.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ordinary-bureaucracy-or-a-betrayal-wagner-chief-says-without-fresh-ammunition-bakhmut-could-collapse-569053">'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition Bakhmut could collapse</a>

Its founder, Kremlin-ally Yevgeny Prigozhin, routinely criticises the defence ministry in social media videos allegedly filmed from the front.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Defence Ministry said on Monday (March 6) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has visited Mariuopol, a city in southern Ukraine. His visit has come about a year after Russian forces besieged the city, levelling it to the ground.

Russian Defence Ministry said on Monday (March 6) that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has visited Mariuopol, a city in southern Ukraine. His visit has come about a year after Russian forces besieged the city, levelling it to the ground. Shoigu's visit came amid attacks by Russian forces closing in on Bakhmut, the city in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian and Russian forces are battling hard for control of the city. The ministry said Shoigu, one of the highest-ranking officials to visit east Ukraine, had toured the destroyed port city of Mariupol to oversee reconstruction efforts. Watch | Wagner Chief: Our men running short of ammunition | Battle of Bakhmut × Shoigu "inspected work carried out by the... defence ministry to restore infrastructure in Donbas," the ministry said, without specifying the timing of the visit. As per the ministry, Shoigu visited a medical centre built by the military alongwith a newly constructed district with a dozen five-story residential buildings. Russia launched a scorched-earth campaign against Mariupol at the start of its campaign last year, destroying the Azovstal steel works, which was the last holdout of Ukraine forces in the city. Investigative teams linked to jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny have reported that defence ministry officials are profiting personally from reconstruction efforts in Mariupol. Also Read | Ukraine war: Govt probing 171 cases of sexual violence committed by Russian troops, says First Lady Zelenska The ministry's announcement comes one day after it said Shoigu had met with Russian soldiers deployed to a "command post in" eastern Ukraine. Russia's gruelling effort to capture Bakhmut has been spearheaded on the ground by the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Also Read | 'Ordinary bureaucracy or a betrayal?': Wagner chief says without promised ammunition Bakhmut could collapse Its founder, Kremlin-ally Yevgeny Prigozhin, routinely criticises the defence ministry in social media videos allegedly filmed from the front. (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 ×

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visits Mariupol in Ukraine

A group of people are protesting against the European Union. They are also against NATO supplying weapons to Ukraine. They are demanding peace talks be setup to settle the conflict at the earliest.

Protests against EU, NATO across Europe over Ukraine war

The eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut continues to witness intense fighting as Russia attempts to “encircle the town”, forcing civilians to leave on foot rather than vehicles. Reports also suggested that it seems like both Moscow and Kyiv are struggling with weapon shortages and mounting casualties. This comes as Bakhmut has become the epicentre of fighting in the past few months.&nbsp;

On Sunday morning, a Ukrainian general said “more than 130 enemy attacks,” have been repelled from areas including Kupiansk, Lyman, Bakhmut and Avdiivka in the eastern regions of Donetsk, Luhansk and Kharkiv. He added, “The enemy continues its attempts to encircle the town of Bakhmut.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heavy-fighting-underway-as-russian-troops-surround-bakhmut-568957">Heavy fighting underway as Russian troops surround Bakhmut</a>

This comes after the Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief, Yevgeny Prigozhin, late Saturday said that if his forces were to withdraw, Moscow’s entire frontline would collapse. Subsequently, in a video address on Sunday, he said that Russia’s ministry of defence was not doing enough to support his men in terms of ammunition. “If the private mercenary force Wagner retreats from Bakhmut, the whole front will crumble…to the Russian borders and maybe further”, said the Wagner chief, as per the Guardian.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Ukrainian military’s eastern command, Serhiy Cherevatyi said Bakhmut was Russia’s “priority target” but their troops are “doing everything to defend this settlement and also inflict maximum losses on the enemy”, reported Reuters. In an interview with Ukraine’s Kyiv24 on Sunday, the war-torn country’s top commander described the situation in the city as “hell” and that Russian forces were still on the outskirts of the city.&nbsp;

Think tank ISW and UK defence ministry weigh in

The Washington-based think tank, Institute for the Study of War (ISW) in a statement, on Sunday, said, “Russian forces appear to have secured a sufficient positional advantage to conduct a turning movement against parts of Bakhmut but have not yet forced Ukrainian forces to withdraw and will not likely be able to encircle the city soon.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-begins-withdrawal-from-eastern-bakhmut-town-as-russia-gains-upper-hand-568405">Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report</a>

It added that the purpose of this turning movement “is to force the enemy to abandon prepared defensive positions and is different from the aim of an encirclement, which is to trap and destroy enemy forces.” However, the Ukrainian command has signalled that it might withdraw from the city rather than risk an encirclement, said the ISW.&nbsp;

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Latest on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a>: 
 
Russian forces appear to have secured a sufficient positional advantage to conduct a turning movement against parts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bakhmut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bakhmut</a> but have not yet forced Ukrainian forces to withdraw and will not likely be able to encircle the city soon. <a href="https://t.co/MrFvmVbnTj">https://t.co/MrFvmVbnTj</a> <a href="https://t.co/ijHXmHYVMl">pic.twitter.com/ijHXmHYVMl</a>
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Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence, in its update on Sunday said Russia engaging in “close combat” with Ukraine would signal that Russia is short on ammunition. They also claim that Russian-mobilised reservists in late February were ordered to assault a Ukrainian strongpoint armed with only “firearms and shovels”. It added that the shovels “are likely entrenching tools being employed for hand-to-hand combat.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/battle-for-bakhmut-rages-on-round-the-clock-as-russia-intensifies-offensive-568225">Battle for Bakhmut rages on ‘round the clock’ as Russia intensifies offensive</a>

This also comes a day after the British intelligence update said that Ukrainian troops in the past 36 hours have destroyed two key bridges just outside Bakhmut linking to the nearby town of Chasiv Yar, along the last remaining Ukrainian resupply route. The action was prompted by the Russian forces making further inroads into Bakhmut’s northern suburbs.&nbsp;

Residents in Bakhmut flee

As the pressure from Russian forces mounted on Saturday in Bakhmut, Ukrainian residents in the city were forced to flee. An unnamed Ukrainian army representative speaking to the Associated Press said that was now too dangerous for civilians to leave Bakhmut by vehicle and that people had to flee on foot instead. According to AP, a pontoon bridge was set up by Ukrainian soldiers to help move the residents to the nearby village of Khromove, where at least five houses were seen on fire after attacks on the village.&nbsp;

Russian army claims to have hit Azov Regiment command centre in Ukraine

The Russian defence ministry, in a statement, said that they have hit a Ukrainian command centre for the Azov Regiment in the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. However, it did not elaborate on the attack or even mention the battle around Bakhmut in its Sunday bulletin.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-forces-tries-to-encircle-and-storm-bakhmut-567539">Russian Forces try to encircle and storm Bakhmut</a>

Women and children killed in Kherson; Death toll after strike in Zaporizhzhia rises to 11

A woman and two children were killed in the Ukrainian region of Kherson after their village was hit by a Russian mortar shelling, said the head of Kyiv’s presidential office, Andriy Yermak on Sunday. “Mortar shelling of Poniativka village in Kherson region. A private house was hit”, he wrote on the messaging app Telegram.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the Ukrainian state emergency service said that at least 11 people were killed after an apartment block in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia was hit by an early morning strike last week. The agency took to Telegram and said that the death toll rose after they found a woman’s body in the debris.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

 
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The eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut continues to witness intense fighting as Russia attempts to “encircle the town”, forcing civilians to leave on foot rather than vehicles.

The eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut continues to witness intense fighting as Russia attempts to “encircle the town”, forcing civilians to leave on foot rather than vehicles. Reports also suggested that it seems like both Moscow and Kyiv are struggling with weapon shortages and mounting casualties. This comes as Bakhmut has become the epicentre of fighting in the past few months. On Sunday morning, a Ukrainian general said “more than 130 enemy attacks,” have been repelled from areas including Kupiansk, Lyman, Bakhmut and Avdiivka in the eastern regions of Donetsk, Luhansk and Kharkiv. He added, “The enemy continues its attempts to encircle the town of Bakhmut.” ALSO WATCH | Heavy fighting underway as Russian troops surround Bakhmut This comes after the Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief, Yevgeny Prigozhin, late Saturday said that if his forces were to withdraw, Moscow’s entire frontline would collapse. Subsequently, in a video address on Sunday, he said that Russia’s ministry of defence was not doing enough to support his men in terms of ammunition. “If the private mercenary force Wagner retreats from Bakhmut, the whole front will crumble…to the Russian borders and maybe further”, said the Wagner chief, as per the Guardian. Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Ukrainian military’s eastern command, Serhiy Cherevatyi said Bakhmut was Russia’s “priority target” but their troops are “doing everything to defend this settlement and also inflict maximum losses on the enemy”, reported Reuters. In an interview with Ukraine’s Kyiv24 on Sunday, the war-torn country’s top commander described the situation in the city as “hell” and that Russian forces were still on the outskirts of the city. Think tank ISW and UK defence ministry weigh in The Washington-based think tank, Institute for the Study of War (ISW) in a statement, on Sunday, said, “Russian forces appear to have secured a sufficient positional advantage to conduct a turning movement against parts of Bakhmut but have not yet forced Ukrainian forces to withdraw and will not likely be able to encircle the city soon.” ALSO READ | Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report It added that the purpose of this turning movement “is to force the enemy to abandon prepared defensive positions and is different from the aim of an encirclement, which is to trap and destroy enemy forces.” However, the Ukrainian command has signalled that it might withdraw from the city rather than risk an encirclement, said the ISW. Latest on #Ukraine: Russian forces appear to have secured a sufficient positional advantage to conduct a turning movement against parts of #Bakhmut but have not yet forced Ukrainian forces to withdraw and will not likely be able to encircle the city soon. https://t.co/MrFvmVbnTj pic.twitter.com/ijHXmHYVMl — ISW (@TheStudyofWar) March 5, 2023 × Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence, in its update on Sunday said Russia engaging in “close combat” with Ukraine would signal that Russia is short on ammunition. They also claim that Russian-mobilised reservists in late February were ordered to assault a Ukrainian strongpoint armed with only “firearms and shovels”. It added that the shovels “are likely entrenching tools being employed for hand-to-hand combat.” ALSO READ | Battle for Bakhmut rages on ‘round the clock’ as Russia intensifies offensive This also comes a day after the British intelligence update said that Ukrainian troops in the past 36 hours have destroyed two key bridges just outside Bakhmut linking to the nearby town of Chasiv Yar, along the last remaining Ukrainian resupply route. The action was prompted by the Russian forces making further inroads into Bakhmut’s northern suburbs. Residents in Bakhmut flee As the pressure from Russian forces mounted on Saturday in Bakhmut, Ukrainian residents in the city were forced to flee. An unnamed Ukrainian army representative speaking to the Associated Press said that was now too dangerous for civilians to leave Bakhmut by vehicle and that people had to flee on foot instead. According to AP, a pontoon bridge was set up by Ukrainian soldiers to help move the residents to the nearby village of Khromove, where at least five houses were seen on fire after attacks on the village. Russian army claims to have hit Azov Regiment command centre in Ukraine The Russian defence ministry, in a statement, said that they have hit a Ukrainian command centre for the Azov Regiment in the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. However, it did not elaborate on the attack or even mention the battle around Bakhmut in its Sunday bulletin. ALSO WATCH | Russian Forces try to encircle and storm Bakhmut Women and children killed in Kherson; Death toll after strike in Zaporizhzhia rises to 11 A woman and two children were killed in the Ukrainian region of Kherson after their village was hit by a Russian mortar shelling, said the head of Kyiv’s presidential office, Andriy Yermak on Sunday. “Mortar shelling of Poniativka village in Kherson region. A private house was hit”, he wrote on the messaging app Telegram. On Saturday, the Ukrainian state emergency service said that at least 11 people were killed after an apartment block in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia was hit by an early morning strike last week. The agency took to Telegram and said that the death toll rose after they found a woman’s body in the debris. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Battle for Bakhmut rages on as Russian forces attempt to ‘encircle’ city; residents flee

After a seven month long battle, pressure is now mounting on Ukrainian troops holding out in the Eastern city of Bakhmut. According to the latest reports, as the battle rages on the Ukrainian army is trying to help civilians flee the city which Russian forces have spent months trying to capture.

Heavy fighting underway as Russian troops surround Bakhmut

As the war in Ukraine is raging, two Ukrainian pilots are undergoing an evaluation in the US. They are being assessed to see how long they would take to fly fighter aircraft including F-16s. This is a sharp hint that Ukraine might soon get fighter jets in its arsenal, which has been denied until now by the Western allies.

Ukrainian pilots undergo evaluation program to see how long they would take for flying fighter jets

Russian artillery is attacking the last routes out of Bakhmut, aiming to complete the encirclement of the besieged Ukrainian city and bring Moscow closer to its first major victory in half a year after the bloodiest battle of the war.

Russia hopes to capture all of Donbas region in Ukraine's East

Ukraine MP Sviatoslav Yurash has spoken to WION and detailed the situation in his country. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he pointed to the role India can play. Sviatoslav Yurash, 27 years old is a member of Servant of the People party. He studied in Poland and in Kolkata. Sviatoslav Yurash, 27 years old is a member of Servant of the People party .He studied in Poland and in Kolkata.

Ukraine MP Sviatoslav Yurash speaks to WION on Russia Ukraine conflict

Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine is now the epicentre of the Russian-Ukraine battle. The Russian and Ukrainian forces are locked in a gruesome exchange battling through the streets of eastern city. After months of fighting, the tide is changing against Kiev.

Russian forces surround Bakhmut; tide changes as Kyiv's hold weakens

Russian military group Wagner claims to have surrounded Bakhmut

Ukraine has started withdrawing its troops from the embattled Bakhmut, as Russia inches closed to one of its major victories this year, Sky News reported.

Russia's Wagner private army chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video posted on social media said that only one road out of Bakhmut remains under Ukrainian control and called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to abandon the city.

“Units of the private military company Wagner have practically surrounded Bakhmut,” Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said, appearing in combat uniform in a video posted on Telegram.

“Only one route [out] is left,” he said. “The pincers are closing.”

A top Ukrainian presidential adviser told CNN on Tuesday that Kyiv was considering leaving the eastern city, which has been blasted to ruins by Russian artillery.

“So far they’ve held the city, but if need be, they will strategically pull back because we’re not going to sacrifice all of our people just for nothing,” Alexander Rodnyansky was quoted as saying.

<h2>Gravitas: Russia looks at its first major victory</h2>

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Bakhmut is located in Donetsk province—one of four provinces illegally annexed by Russia last fall. Kremlin controls half of the Donetsk province.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-support-kyiv-as-long-as-it-takes-joe-biden-and-olaf-scholz-vow-to-fight-russia-568356">'Will support Kyiv as long as it takes': US President Joe Biden &amp; German Chancellor Scholz vow Ukraine support</a>

In order to seize control of the remaining half of that province, Russian forces must pass through Bakhmut, which will then pave the way for bigger Ukrainian cities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-likely-to-run-out-of-money-next-year-claims-oligarch-oleg-deripaska-567969">&nbsp;Russia likely to run out of money next year, claims oligarch Oleg Deripaska</a>

This is the second Ukrainian city that has fallen to its foe Russia. In January, Moscow was able to take control of the salt mining town of Soledar through sheer force.

(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.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Ukraine has started withdrawing its troops from the embattled Bakhmut, as Russia inches closed to one of its major victories this year, Sky News reported. Russia's Wagner private army chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video posted on social media said that only one road out of Bakhmut remains under Ukrainian control and called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to abandon the city.

Ukraine has started withdrawing its troops from the embattled Bakhmut, as Russia inches closed to one of its major victories this year, Sky News reported. Russia's Wagner private army chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video posted on social media said that only one road out of Bakhmut remains under Ukrainian control and called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to abandon the city. “Units of the private military company Wagner have practically surrounded Bakhmut,” Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said, appearing in combat uniform in a video posted on Telegram. “Only one route [out] is left,” he said. “The pincers are closing.” A top Ukrainian presidential adviser told CNN on Tuesday that Kyiv was considering leaving the eastern city, which has been blasted to ruins by Russian artillery. “So far they’ve held the city, but if need be, they will strategically pull back because we’re not going to sacrifice all of our people just for nothing,” Alexander Rodnyansky was quoted as saying. Gravitas: Russia looks at its first major victory Bakhmut is located in Donetsk province—one of four provinces illegally annexed by Russia last fall. Kremlin controls half of the Donetsk province. Also read | 'Will support Kyiv as long as it takes': US President Joe Biden & German Chancellor Scholz vow Ukraine support In order to seize control of the remaining half of that province, Russian forces must pass through Bakhmut, which will then pave the way for bigger Ukrainian cities. Also read | Russia likely to run out of money next year, claims oligarch Oleg Deripaska This is the second Ukrainian city that has fallen to its foe Russia. In January, Moscow was able to take control of the salt mining town of Soledar through sheer force. (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

Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report

Joe Biden is due to meet the German chancellor as part of continuing efforts to keep the US and Europe aligned in their defence of Ukraine. It will be a working visit to the White House for Olaf Scholz, stripped of any pomp or protocol.

Scholz  meets Biden in order to keep Ukraine strategies aligned

High tension prevails in Ukraine's Bakhmut as Russia steps up it assault, is the key city in Ukraine's east about to fall, once again? And if the city does fall, will it change the course of war?

The battle for Bakhmut

Russian troops and mercenaries rained artillery on the last access routes to the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut on Friday, bringing Moscow closer to its first major victory in half a year after the bloodiest fighting of the war.

Russian forces surrounds Bakhmut

Russian troops advance, Ukraine clings to Bakhmut

Israeli settlers go a rampage in Huwara and resort to arson & vandalism of Palestinian homes Taliban kill 2 top ISIS-K commanders in Central Kabul & the M23 rebels capture yet another key town as they march towards Goma. Mohammed Saleh gets you an in depth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in World At War.

World at War | Why is Ukraine losing Bakhmut to Russia despite using U.S. weapons?

Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska said on Saturday (March 4) that the country's prosecutor's office was investigating 171 cases of sexual violence committed by Russian troops. Addressing a panel discussion on sexual violence and war crimes, Zelenska said the above figures were official, speculating "we do not know how many suffer in silence, especially in the occupied territories."

"171 cases of sexual violence against Ukrainians are currently being investigated by the Prosecutor General's Office, and this figure is not limited to women, 39 men and 13 minors are among the victims. Among them is a boy. Most importantly, we know about these cases only because these people found the strength to speak. (Thanks to) their strength, the strength of their loved ones. We do not know how many suffer in silence, especially in the occupied territories," she said, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-steel-plant-builds-six-person-bunkers-for-front-line-troops-568546">Ukraine war: Steel plant builds six-person bunkers for front line troops</a>

"Verdicts for Russian rapes and other war crimes are needed as a precedent, so that any potential aggressor, any collective rapists in the world knows that such things will not go unpunished. And for those to whom something still seems incomprehensible, who hint towards making concessions to the aggressor. We must liberate our land from the invader not only because we want to return to universally recognised borders," she added.&nbsp;

The First Lady also said everybody would be held accountable for crimes they committed, and atrocities that have seen committed against the brave Ukrainians.

Olena Zelenska has previously accused Moscow of using rape as a weapon of war in her country. In November last year, she claimed that the wives of Russian servicemen encouraged them to rape Ukrainian women.&nbsp;

"Sexual violence is the most cruel, most animalistic way to prove mastership over someone. And for victims of this kind of violence, it is difficult to testify in war times because nobody feels safe", she said during an international conference in London, according to a report by Sky News.&nbsp;

The First Lady's remarks on Saturday come just days after Kyiv's human rights commissioner accused Russians of kidnapping Ukrainian children and selling them for sex. "Telegram channels revealed that Russians are kidnapping Ukrainian children and making sexual videos with them," rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets said in a post on Telegram.&nbsp;

Lubinets added that Russians offered $3,315 (250,000 rubbles) for a boy who is an orphan. He posted an excerpt from an exchange on WhatsApp between two people allegedly discussing using a young boy for a child pornography shoot. The human rights commissioner called on Ukraine's police, cyber police and prosecutors to take "appropriate measures to find and punish the guilty.

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Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska said on Saturday (March 4) that the country's prosecutor's office was investigating 171 cases of sexual violence committed by Russian troops.

Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska said on Saturday (March 4) that the country's prosecutor's office was investigating 171 cases of sexual violence committed by Russian troops. Addressing a panel discussion on sexual violence and war crimes, Zelenska said the above figures were official, speculating "we do not know how many suffer in silence, especially in the occupied territories." "171 cases of sexual violence against Ukrainians are currently being investigated by the Prosecutor General's Office, and this figure is not limited to women, 39 men and 13 minors are among the victims. Among them is a boy. Most importantly, we know about these cases only because these people found the strength to speak. (Thanks to) their strength, the strength of their loved ones. We do not know how many suffer in silence, especially in the occupied territories," she said, the news agency Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Steel plant builds six-person bunkers for front line troops "Verdicts for Russian rapes and other war crimes are needed as a precedent, so that any potential aggressor, any collective rapists in the world knows that such things will not go unpunished. And for those to whom something still seems incomprehensible, who hint towards making concessions to the aggressor. We must liberate our land from the invader not only because we want to return to universally recognised borders," she added. The First Lady also said everybody would be held accountable for crimes they committed, and atrocities that have seen committed against the brave Ukrainians. Olena Zelenska has previously accused Moscow of using rape as a weapon of war in her country. In November last year, she claimed that the wives of Russian servicemen encouraged them to rape Ukrainian women. "Sexual violence is the most cruel, most animalistic way to prove mastership over someone. And for victims of this kind of violence, it is difficult to testify in war times because nobody feels safe", she said during an international conference in London, according to a report by Sky News. The First Lady's remarks on Saturday come just days after Kyiv's human rights commissioner accused Russians of kidnapping Ukrainian children and selling them for sex. "Telegram channels revealed that Russians are kidnapping Ukrainian children and making sexual videos with them," rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets said in a post on Telegram. Lubinets added that Russians offered $3,315 (250,000 rubbles) for a boy who is an orphan. He posted an excerpt from an exchange on WhatsApp between two people allegedly discussing using a young boy for a child pornography shoot. The human rights commissioner called on Ukraine's police, cyber police and prosecutors to take "appropriate measures to find and punish the guilty. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Govt probing 171 cases of sexual violence committed by Russian troops, says First Lady Zelenska

British military intelligence said on Saturday (March 4) that Ukrainian forces were under severe increasing pressure defending Bakhkmut against Russian attacks. Intense fighting is taking place in and around the city. Russian army, aided by private military troops from Wagner group have made advances in Bakhmut's northern suburbs. Ukraine is reinforcing the area with elite military troops, said British Defence Ministry in its daily intelligence bulletin.

Watch | Ukraine to get tactical bridges to move tanks and armoured vehicles; Will China send arms to Russia?

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Two key bridges in Bakhmut have been destroyed within the last 36 hours, it said, adding that Ukrainian-held resupply routes out of the city are increasingly limited.

One of those bridges connected Bakhmut to the city's last main supply route from the Ukrainian-held town of Chasiv Yar, about 13 km (eight miles) to the west, it said.

Ukraine's military command said Russia was still trying to surround Bakhmut but added that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in the city.

"The enemy does not cease attempts to surround Bakhmut," it said in its morning briefing note on Saturday, adding that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in Bakhmut.

Russian artillery pounded the last routes out of Bakhmut on Friday, aiming to complete the encirclement of the besieged city and bring Moscow closer to its first major victory in the war in six months.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-begins-withdrawal-from-eastern-bakhmut-town-as-russia-gains-upper-hand-568405">Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report</a>

The Ukrainian briefing note also said that Russian attacks had been foiled in the villages of Ivanivske and Bohdanivka, both of which lie less than eight km (five miles) west of Bakhmut's city centre.

(With inputs from agencies)

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British military intelligence said on Saturday (March 4) that Ukrainian forces were under severe increasing pressure defending Bakhkmut against Russian attacks. Intense fighting is taking place in and around the city.

British military intelligence said on Saturday (March 4) that Ukrainian forces were under severe increasing pressure defending Bakhkmut against Russian attacks. Intense fighting is taking place in and around the city. Russian army, aided by private military troops from Wagner group have made advances in Bakhmut's northern suburbs. Ukraine is reinforcing the area with elite military troops, said British Defence Ministry in its daily intelligence bulletin. Watch | Ukraine to get tactical bridges to move tanks and armoured vehicles; Will China send arms to Russia? × Two key bridges in Bakhmut have been destroyed within the last 36 hours, it said, adding that Ukrainian-held resupply routes out of the city are increasingly limited. One of those bridges connected Bakhmut to the city's last main supply route from the Ukrainian-held town of Chasiv Yar, about 13 km (eight miles) to the west, it said. Ukraine's military command said Russia was still trying to surround Bakhmut but added that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in the city. "The enemy does not cease attempts to surround Bakhmut," it said in its morning briefing note on Saturday, adding that over the past day Ukrainian forces had beaten back Russian attacks in Bakhmut. Russian artillery pounded the last routes out of Bakhmut on Friday, aiming to complete the encirclement of the besieged city and bring Moscow closer to its first major victory in the war in six months. Also Read | Ukraine begins withdrawal from Bakhmut as Russia gains upper hand: Report The Ukrainian briefing note also said that Russian attacks had been foiled in the villages of Ivanivske and Bohdanivka, both of which lie less than eight km (five miles) west of Bakhmut's city centre. (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 forces under severe pressure defending Bakhmut, says UK

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