Ukraine's Odessa faced new challenges as Russia claimed to have taken over many regions around Ukraine. According to reports, 50,000 people were left in dark, however, power has now been restored in some of the areas.

Russia-Ukraine War: 50,000 left in dark in Ukraine's Odessa, 31 high-power generators to aid city

China is militarily aiding Russia's offensive in Ukraine which will soon complete its one year. A report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on Saturday (February 4) said that China is providing the technology that the Russian military needs for its ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine despite sanctions and export controls imposed by the West.

China is militarily aiding Russia's offensive in Ukraine which will soon complete its one year. A report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on Saturday (February 4) said that China is providing the technology that the Russian military needs for its ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine despite sanctions and export controls imposed by the West. According to Russian customs data reviewed by the WSJ, Chinese state-owned defence companies have been shipping navigation equipment, jamming technology and fighter-jet parts to sanctioned Russian government-owned defence companies. Citing records provided by C4ADS in July last year, the report said that China sent tens of thousands of shipments of dual-use goods—products that have both commercial and military applications to the Russian military. China's support to Russia while it wages the war on Ukraine was supposed to be on the agenda for discussion during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Beijing. However, Blinken postponed his trip due to the US and China locking horns over a suspected Chinese spy balloon seen flying over American skies, which was shot down on Sunday. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, meanwhile, said that Russia had enough technological potential to ensure its security and carry out its offensive (in Ukraine), adding, this potential was constantly being improved. Moscow relies heavily on imports for dual-use technology The WSJ report on Saturday pointed out that while Russia can produce most of its basic military requirements domestically, it relies heavily on imports for dual-use technology. Officials from Western countries earlier said that their economic pressures on Russia would cripple its war machine by targeting such exports including computer chips, infrared cameras and radar equipment. However, customs and corporate records show that Moscow is still able to import that technology through countries that haven’t joined American led-efforts to cut it (Russia) off from global markets, the report said, adding that many of the export-controlled products are still flowing through countries including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Turkey. ALSO READ | US warns Turkey over exports to Russia that could boost its war in Ukraine The journal by C4ADS also showed that Chinese companies, both state-owned and private, have been the dominant exporters of dual-use goods. Naomi Garcia, an analyst at C4ADS, said that despite international scrutiny and sanctions protocols, reliable global trade showed that Chinese state-owned defence companies continued to send military-applicable parts to sanctioned Russian defence companies. Garcia added that these Russian companies had been recorded using such parts directly in the war in Ukraine. What do the records show? As per the customs records, Poly Technologies, a Chinese state-owned defence company, shipped navigation equipment to Russian military export firm JSC Rosoboronexport for M-17 military transport helicopters on August 31 last year. Earlier that month, another Chinese company Nanan Baofeng Electronic supplied a telescoping antenna for the RB-531BE military vehicle to Rosoboronexport—through an Uzbek state-owned defence firm. On October 24, 2022, another Chinese company AVIC International Holding Corp shipped $1.2 million worth of parts for Su-35 jet fighters to AO Kret, which is a subsidiary of Russian state-owned defence giant Rostec. Wang Shaofeng, general manager of Fujian Baofeng Electronics Co., told the WSJ that a third party might be illegally using his company's name and that it does not include "Nanan". Shaofeng added that his company does not produce telescoping antennas and also does not have a record of shipping to any Uzbek state-owned defence firm. The allegation is baseless, says Beijing Liu Pengyu, the spokesperson of the Chinese embassy in the US, told the WSJ that the allegation of Beijing providing military aid to Russia has no factual basis, adding it is purely speculative and deliberately hyped up. 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: China providing military assistance to Russia for its offensive, says report

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that Ukraine will fight to hold the 'fortress' city of Bakhmut for as long as it could. Bakhmut is a city located in eastern Ukraine. Zelensky urged the West to supply long-range weapons to Ukraine to help it push Russia out of Donbas.

"Nobody will give away Bakhmut. We will fight for as long as we can. We consider Bakhmut our fortress," Zelenskiy told a news conference with top European Union officials following a summit in Kyiv.

"If weapons (supplies) are quickened, specifically long range weapons, we not only will not leave Bakhmut, but we will also begin to de-occupy Donbas, which has been occupied since 2014," he said.

The city of Bakhmut has become the focal point of Ukrainian resistance to Russia's invasion and of Moscow’s drive to regain battlefield momentum.

Russian officials have said Russian forces are encircling Bakhmut from several directions and battling to take control of a road which is also an important supply route for Ukrainian forces.

Zelensky said Russia would continue to push in the east but that Ukrainian forces would be able to hold out until more Western weapons arrived.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the initial months of the conflict, Russian forces have had to retreat from many regions in the face of Ukrainian counterattack.

The head of the EU's executive Commission and the chairman of the 27 EU national leaders have travelled to Kyiv to demonstrate support for Ukraine as the first anniversary of Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of its neighbour approaches.

Zelenskiy, flanked by the EU leaders at a news conference, said European sanctions should aim to ensure Russia cannot rebuild its military capability. And he had a defiant message on Bakhmut, the focal point of Ukrainian resistance to Russia's invasion and of Moscow’s drive to regain battlefield momentum.

NO EU FAST TRACK

Zelenskiy has called for more punitive EU sanctions against Russia, though new measures the bloc is preparing for the anniversary of the invasion are set to fall short of his government's demands.

Ukraine applied to join the EU days after Russia invaded last year. The EU has embraced the application, although it has rebuffed Ukraine's calls for a fast track to membership while the country is at war.

"The EU will support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people against Russia's ongoing war of aggression for as long as it takes," the EU leaders were expected to say a joint statement, a draft of which was seen by Reuters in advance.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that Ukraine will fight to hold the 'fortress' city of Bakhmut for as long as it could. Bakhmut is a city located in eastern Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that Ukraine will fight to hold the 'fortress' city of Bakhmut for as long as it could. Bakhmut is a city located in eastern Ukraine. Zelensky urged the West to supply long-range weapons to Ukraine to help it push Russia out of Donbas. "Nobody will give away Bakhmut. We will fight for as long as we can. We consider Bakhmut our fortress," Zelenskiy told a news conference with top European Union officials following a summit in Kyiv. "If weapons (supplies) are quickened, specifically long range weapons, we not only will not leave Bakhmut, but we will also begin to de-occupy Donbas, which has been occupied since 2014," he said. The city of Bakhmut has become the focal point of Ukrainian resistance to Russia's invasion and of Moscow’s drive to regain battlefield momentum. Russian officials have said Russian forces are encircling Bakhmut from several directions and battling to take control of a road which is also an important supply route for Ukrainian forces. Zelensky said Russia would continue to push in the east but that Ukrainian forces would be able to hold out until more Western weapons arrived. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the initial months of the conflict, Russian forces have had to retreat from many regions in the face of Ukrainian counterattack. The head of the EU's executive Commission and the chairman of the 27 EU national leaders have travelled to Kyiv to demonstrate support for Ukraine as the first anniversary of Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of its neighbour approaches. Zelenskiy, flanked by the EU leaders at a news conference, said European sanctions should aim to ensure Russia cannot rebuild its military capability. And he had a defiant message on Bakhmut, the focal point of Ukrainian resistance to Russia's invasion and of Moscow’s drive to regain battlefield momentum. NO EU FAST TRACK Zelenskiy has called for more punitive EU sanctions against Russia, though new measures the bloc is preparing for the anniversary of the invasion are set to fall short of his government's demands. Ukraine applied to join the EU days after Russia invaded last year. The EU has embraced the application, although it has rebuffed Ukraine's calls for a fast track to membership while the country is at war. "The EU will support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people against Russia's ongoing war of aggression for as long as it takes," the EU leaders were expected to say a joint statement, a draft of which was seen by Reuters in advance. (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 ×

Will not give away ‘fortress’ Bakhmut, fight as long as we can: Ukraine President Zelensky

The US has wanted to care to slow down exports to Russia which could strengthen Ukraine's war efforts in Ukraine. The US says it would punish Turkish companies' or banks who would contravene the sanctions.

US warns Turkiye to stop exports to Russia, says 'it will empower Ukraine's war efforts'

Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine.&nbsp;"The situation is difficult, the scale of the accident is significant, it is impossible to quickly restore power supply, in particular to critical infrastructure," wrote Shmyhal on Telegram.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-swap-dozens-of-prisoners-of-war-558794">Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war</a>

The prime minister added that the Odesa region's substation had suffered damages multiple times previously because of Russian missile strikes and that the energy minister will be soon reaching the regional capital to look into the repairs along with the CEO of the national grid operator.

Shmyhal stated that the authorities have been working to ensure that the power supply to apartment blocks and critical infrastructure is restored as soon as possible so that the homes can remain heated using electricity.

On Saturday, the temperature in Odesa, which is the main southern port city of Ukraine on the Black Sea and has a population of one million people, was at two degrees Celsius (35.6°F) and as per experts it is likely to dip below freezing temperature in the next week.

WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky meeting with EU leaders underway; Russia advances in East Ukraine

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Shmyhal said that the energy ministry of Ukraine has been ordered to scramble every possible high-power generator which is available in its nationwide inventory and send it to Odesa in a day.

He added that the foreign ministry has also been asked to request Turkey to send power ships, which are vessels that carry power plants, to the city till there is a power outage.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine.

Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine. "The situation is difficult, the scale of the accident is significant, it is impossible to quickly restore power supply, in particular to critical infrastructure," wrote Shmyhal on Telegram. ALSO READ | Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war The prime minister added that the Odesa region's substation had suffered damages multiple times previously because of Russian missile strikes and that the energy minister will be soon reaching the regional capital to look into the repairs along with the CEO of the national grid operator. Shmyhal stated that the authorities have been working to ensure that the power supply to apartment blocks and critical infrastructure is restored as soon as possible so that the homes can remain heated using electricity. On Saturday, the temperature in Odesa, which is the main southern port city of Ukraine on the Black Sea and has a population of one million people, was at two degrees Celsius (35.6°F) and as per experts it is likely to dip below freezing temperature in the next week. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky meeting with EU leaders underway; Russia advances in East Ukraine Shmyhal said that the energy ministry of Ukraine has been ordered to scramble every possible high-power generator which is available in its nationwide inventory and send it to Odesa in a day. He added that the foreign ministry has also been asked to request Turkey to send power ships, which are vessels that carry power plants, to the city till there is a power outage. (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

New blow to power grid in Ukraine after major accident in Odesa, says PM

Dozens of Russian and Ukrainian prisoners of war have returned home after a swap between the two countries who have been at war for almost a year now. The officials on both sides confirmed the prisoners-of-war swap on Saturday. A total of 116 Ukrainians were released, according to Andriy Yermak, an aide to the Ukrainian President.

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POWs or prisoners of war are people who are held captive by the other side in the conflict against the backdrop of wartime animosity. Yermak said the released POWs include troops who were held out in Mariupol,&nbsp;a port city, which was besieged just days after Russia invaded Ukraine and was on the target of constant shelling from the beginning of the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022.

The POWs, he said, also included snipers caught during on-going violent clashes for Bakhmut, a city in eastern Ukraine and fighters from the Kherson region.

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On the other side, Russian defence officials, announced that 63 Russian troops had returned from Ukraine following the swap. The officials acknowledged that this included a few "special category" prisoners whose release was obtained thanks to United Arab Emirates mediation.

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According to officials from both sides, a prisoner swap resulted in the repatriation of 179 Russian and Ukrainian prisoners of war.&nbsp;

This comes in the backdrop of President Volodymyr Zelensky's statement on Friday that Ukraine would fight to hold onto the eastern "fortress" city of Bakhmut for as long as it could. He appealed to the West to provide long-range weapons to aid Kyiv in driving Russian forces out of the Donbas region.

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Dozens of Russian and Ukrainian prisoners of war have returned home after a swap between the two countries who have been at war for almost a year now. The officials on both sides confirmed the prisoners-of-war swap on Saturday.

Dozens of Russian and Ukrainian prisoners of war have returned home after a swap between the two countries who have been at war for almost a year now. The officials on both sides confirmed the prisoners-of-war swap on Saturday. A total of 116 Ukrainians were released, according to Andriy Yermak, an aide to the Ukrainian President. Also Read | China bans Jack Dorsey-backed Twitter alternative Damus, here's why POWs or prisoners of war are people who are held captive by the other side in the conflict against the backdrop of wartime animosity. Yermak said the released POWs include troops who were held out in Mariupol, a port city, which was besieged just days after Russia invaded Ukraine and was on the target of constant shelling from the beginning of the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022. The POWs, he said, also included snipers caught during on-going violent clashes for Bakhmut, a city in eastern Ukraine and fighters from the Kherson region. Also Read | Iraqi father strangles YouTuber daughter to death for deciding to leave country On the other side, Russian defence officials, announced that 63 Russian troops had returned from Ukraine following the swap. The officials acknowledged that this included a few "special category" prisoners whose release was obtained thanks to United Arab Emirates mediation. Watch | US-EU spat over America's Inflation Reduction Act According to officials from both sides, a prisoner swap resulted in the repatriation of 179 Russian and Ukrainian prisoners of war. This comes in the backdrop of President Volodymyr Zelensky's statement on Friday that Ukraine would fight to hold onto the eastern "fortress" city of Bakhmut for as long as it could. He appealed to the West to provide long-range weapons to aid Kyiv in driving Russian forces out of the Donbas region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war, Moscow thanks UAE for mediation

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa said on Saturday (February 4) that Portugal will send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. He did not specify how many exactly would be shipped but added that Portugal was in talks with Germany to obtain parts needed for the repair of number of inoperable tanks with Portugal.

"We are currently working to be able to dispense some of our tanks," Costa told Lusa news agency during a trip to the Central African Republic. "I know how many tanks will be (sent to Ukraine) but that will be announced at the appropriate time."

Costa's office did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Admiral António Silva Ribeiro, the head of the Portuguese armed forces, said last month that Portugal has&nbsp;37 Leopard 2 tanks but it has been widely reported by local media that most are inoperable.

Portugal is working with Germany to get the parts needed to repair the tanks that are not operational, Costa said, adding he hoped to deliver them to Ukraine by the end of March.

The defence ministry said it would not comment on the "operability of weapons and equipment systems" for security reasons.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said earlier this week the country would receive 120 to 140 Western tanks in a "first wave" of deliveries from a coalition of 12 countries.

Kyiv secured pledges from the West to supply main battle tanks to help fend off Russia's full-scale invasion, with Moscow mounting huge efforts to make incremental advances in eastern Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa said on Saturday (February 4) that Portugal will send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. He did not specify how many exactly would be shipped but added that Portugal was in talks with Germany to obtain parts needed for the repair of number of inoperable tanks with Portugal.

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa said on Saturday (February 4) that Portugal will send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. He did not specify how many exactly would be shipped but added that Portugal was in talks with Germany to obtain parts needed for the repair of number of inoperable tanks with Portugal. "We are currently working to be able to dispense some of our tanks," Costa told Lusa news agency during a trip to the Central African Republic. "I know how many tanks will be (sent to Ukraine) but that will be announced at the appropriate time." Costa's office did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Admiral António Silva Ribeiro, the head of the Portuguese armed forces, said last month that Portugal has 37 Leopard 2 tanks but it has been widely reported by local media that most are inoperable. Portugal is working with Germany to get the parts needed to repair the tanks that are not operational, Costa said, adding he hoped to deliver them to Ukraine by the end of March. The defence ministry said it would not comment on the "operability of weapons and equipment systems" for security reasons. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said earlier this week the country would receive 120 to 140 Western tanks in a "first wave" of deliveries from a coalition of 12 countries. Kyiv secured pledges from the West to supply main battle tanks to help fend off Russia's full-scale invasion, with Moscow mounting huge efforts to make incremental advances in eastern Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Portugal working to deliver Leopard tanks to Ukraine by March, says PM

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina said on Friday that the ban on Russian and Belarusian players competing at Wimbledon must continue after they were excluded from last year's championships. Wimbledon barred players from the two countries due to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, a decision which was swiftly condemned by the men's and women's tours as well as Novak Djokovic and Martina Navratilova.

However, Svitolina, the 2019 Wimbledon semi-finalist, said nothing had changed from last year's reason for the ban. "I hope they will do the same thing and keep the ban in place. I don't think it should change," the 28-year-old Svitolina was quoted as saying by the BBC on Friday. "There are still people suffering and still Russian soldiers killing innocent Ukrainians. The war is still there. The decision should not be any different."

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The French, U.S. and Australian Open Grand Slams allowed Russian and Belarusian players to compete as neutrals. Wimbledon has yet to announce if the ban it imposed last year will continue. Wimbledon organisers The All England Lawn&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Club were not immediately available to comment. Athletes from Russia and Belarus, which aided President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago, have been largely banned from international competitions since.

Moscow says it is defending its own security and denies accusations of widespread atrocities in Ukraine. Svitolina on Wednesday called for Russian and Belarusian athletes to be banned from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Svitolina, married to fellow player Gael Monfils, reached a career-high ranking of world number three in 2017 but has not played since giving birth to her first child last year.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina said on Friday that the ban on Russian and Belarusian players competing at Wimbledon must continue after they were excluded from last year's championships.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina said on Friday that the ban on Russian and Belarusian players competing at Wimbledon must continue after they were excluded from last year's championships. Wimbledon barred players from the two countries due to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, a decision which was swiftly condemned by the men's and women's tours as well as Novak Djokovic and Martina Navratilova. However, Svitolina, the 2019 Wimbledon semi-finalist, said nothing had changed from last year's reason for the ban. "I hope they will do the same thing and keep the ban in place. I don't think it should change," the 28-year-old Svitolina was quoted as saying by the BBC on Friday. "There are still people suffering and still Russian soldiers killing innocent Ukrainians. The war is still there. The decision should not be any different." Also Read: Paris Olympics: Ukraine's Elina Svitolina calls for ban on Russians and Belarusians The French, U.S. and Australian Open Grand Slams allowed Russian and Belarusian players to compete as neutrals. Wimbledon has yet to announce if the ban it imposed last year will continue. Wimbledon organisers The All England Lawn Tennis Club were not immediately available to comment. Athletes from Russia and Belarus, which aided President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago, have been largely banned from international competitions since. Moscow says it is defending its own security and denies accusations of widespread atrocities in Ukraine. Svitolina on Wednesday called for Russian and Belarusian athletes to be banned from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Svitolina, married to fellow player Gael Monfils, reached a career-high ranking of world number three in 2017 but has not played since giving birth to her first child last year.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina wants continued Wimbledon ban on Russian, Belarusian players

With the Israeli-Palestine conflict at a new high, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday met French President Emmanuel Macron and other France's Jewish community in Paris. Republicans removed Democrat Ilhan Omar from the US House Foreign Affairs Committee over her anti-Semitic comments.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, ahead of Blinken's visit to Beijing, the US was tracking a suspected Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon that has been flying over the continental United States for a couple of days.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-travelling-over-the-us-pentagon-says-558399">Suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over the US, Pentagon says&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/03/329909-2023-02-03t022527z2lynxmpej1202ertroptp4usa-china-spy.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

The US was tracking a suspected Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon that has been flying over the continental United States for a couple of days, a senior defence official said Thursday. Senior officials have advised President Joe Biden against shooting it down since the debris might pose a safety threat.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-meets-macron-amid-fresh-flareup-in-middle-east-conflict-558409">Netanyahu meets Macron amid fresh flareup in Middle-East conflict&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/03/329914-netany.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Amid a new flareup in Middle East conflict in years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with French president Emmanuel Macron and other members of France's Jewish community in Paris on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-ilhan-omar-ousted-from-house-foreign-affairs-committee-for-her-anti-semitic-comments-558401">Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/03/329908-fgh.png?imwidth=1920" />

Republicans, who now hold the majority in the House after the midterm elections in November, removed Democrat Ilhan Omar from the US House Foreign Affairs Committee over her anti-Semitic comments.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-vows-victory-in-ukraine-says-russia-can-answer-countries-threatening-it-558396">Putin vows victory in Ukraine, says Russia can 'answer' countries threatening it&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/30/329095-putin.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

In a raging speech on Thursday (February 2), Russian President Vladimir Putin promised victory over Ukraine. Putin was speaking at an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Red Army's victory over Nazi Germany in Stalingrad, now known as Volgograd (Stalingrad until 1961).&nbsp;

Qatargate Scandal: Four MEPs under Belgian official's radar

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With the Israeli-Palestine conflict at a new high, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday met French President Emmanuel Macron and other France's Jewish community in Paris.

With the Israeli-Palestine conflict at a new high, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday met French President Emmanuel Macron and other France's Jewish community in Paris. Republicans removed Democrat Ilhan Omar from the US House Foreign Affairs Committee over her anti-Semitic comments. Meanwhile, ahead of Blinken's visit to Beijing, the US was tracking a suspected Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon that has been flying over the continental United States for a couple of days. Click on the headlines to read more: Suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over the US, Pentagon says The US was tracking a suspected Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon that has been flying over the continental United States for a couple of days, a senior defence official said Thursday. Senior officials have advised President Joe Biden against shooting it down since the debris might pose a safety threat. Netanyahu meets Macron amid fresh flareup in Middle-East conflict Amid a new flareup in Middle East conflict in years, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with French president Emmanuel Macron and other members of France's Jewish community in Paris on Thursday. Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments Republicans, who now hold the majority in the House after the midterm elections in November, removed Democrat Ilhan Omar from the US House Foreign Affairs Committee over her anti-Semitic comments. Putin vows victory in Ukraine, says Russia can 'answer' countries threatening it In a raging speech on Thursday (February 2), Russian President Vladimir Putin promised victory over Ukraine. Putin was speaking at an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Red Army's victory over Nazi Germany in Stalingrad, now known as Volgograd (Stalingrad until 1961). Qatargate Scandal: Four MEPs under Belgian official's radar ×

Morning news brief: Suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over US, Netanyahu meets Macron in Paris and more

Russian President Vladimir Putin, while marking 80 years of the Battle of Stalingrad, said that Russia would defeat Ukraine which according to him is in the grip of a new Avatar of Nazism. In his aggressive speech, Putin lashed out against Germany for providing modern weaponry to Ukraine.

Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky meeting with EU leaders underway; Russia advances in East Ukraine

The Ukrainian government on Friday (February 3) unveiled a case against Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner which has been supporting Russia in its offensive in Ukraine, news agency Reuters reported. Taking to Facebook, Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said that the Prosecutor General's Office served a notice to the head of Wagner.

Without naming Prigozhin, the statement said, "The head of this group is directly responsible for thousands of war crimes. He openly admits his role in the war against Ukraine and, with the Kremlin's permission, resolves staff issues by recruiting tens of thousands of prisoners."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dear-mr-kirby-wagner-boss-writes-to-white-house-over-fresh-us-sanctions-554903">'Dear Mr Kirby...': Wagner boss writes to White House over fresh US sanctions</a>

Kostin listed accusations against the Wagner group including encroachment on Ukraine's territorial integrity and waging an aggressive war and said that mercenaries (from the group) of all ranks would be held responsible, including those who fled abroad. "I am certain together with international partners we will ensure comprehensive responsibility both for every criminal who came to our land with weapons in his hands and also for their patrons who do business in blood," the prosecutor general added.&nbsp;

Kostin also said the Ukrainian government would send Norway a request against a former Wagner commander who was arrested (in Norway) last month.&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, the Norwegian police said they intended to continue investigating former Wagner commander Andrei Medvedev, who fled from Russia to Norway last month.&nbsp;

According to a statement, Kripos- a unit of the police which investigates war crimes- said Medvedev handed some digital material to the police. Kripos said the material was being examined, adding the former Wagner commander remained a witness and was not under any obligation to talk to investors. "Medvedev gives the impression that he wants to continue to say more," the statement added.&nbsp;

Wagner has not only been involved in the Ukraine war but also in conflicts in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. On Tuesday (January 31), United Nations (UN) experts called for an immediate independent investigation into abuses and possible war crimes committed in Mali by government forces and Wagner. According to a statement, the experts said that since 2021, they received "persistent and alarming accounts" of violations committed by Mali's armed forces and their allies in the Mopti area and elsewhere, a report by the news agency AFP said.&nbsp;

The UN experts said they were especially concerned about reports of mass executions in central Mali's Moura village in March last year. As per their information, "Malian forces, accompanied by military personnel believed to belong to the Wagner Group, executed several hundred people who had been rounded up."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Ukrainian government on Friday (February 3) unveiled a case against Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner which has been supporting Russia in its offensive in Ukraine, news agency Reuters reported.

The Ukrainian government on Friday (February 3) unveiled a case against Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of the Russian mercenary group Wagner which has been supporting Russia in its offensive in Ukraine, news agency Reuters reported. Taking to Facebook, Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said that the Prosecutor General's Office served a notice to the head of Wagner. Without naming Prigozhin, the statement said, "The head of this group is directly responsible for thousands of war crimes. He openly admits his role in the war against Ukraine and, with the Kremlin's permission, resolves staff issues by recruiting tens of thousands of prisoners." ALSO READ | 'Dear Mr Kirby...': Wagner boss writes to White House over fresh US sanctions Kostin listed accusations against the Wagner group including encroachment on Ukraine's territorial integrity and waging an aggressive war and said that mercenaries (from the group) of all ranks would be held responsible, including those who fled abroad. "I am certain together with international partners we will ensure comprehensive responsibility both for every criminal who came to our land with weapons in his hands and also for their patrons who do business in blood," the prosecutor general added. Kostin also said the Ukrainian government would send Norway a request against a former Wagner commander who was arrested (in Norway) last month. Earlier on Friday, the Norwegian police said they intended to continue investigating former Wagner commander Andrei Medvedev, who fled from Russia to Norway last month. According to a statement, Kripos- a unit of the police which investigates war crimes- said Medvedev handed some digital material to the police. Kripos said the material was being examined, adding the former Wagner commander remained a witness and was not under any obligation to talk to investors. "Medvedev gives the impression that he wants to continue to say more," the statement added. Wagner has not only been involved in the Ukraine war but also in conflicts in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. On Tuesday (January 31), United Nations (UN) experts called for an immediate independent investigation into abuses and possible war crimes committed in Mali by government forces and Wagner. According to a statement, the experts said that since 2021, they received "persistent and alarming accounts" of violations committed by Mali's armed forces and their allies in the Mopti area and elsewhere, a report by the news agency AFP said. The UN experts said they were especially concerned about reports of mass executions in central Mali's Moura village in March last year. As per their information, "Malian forces, accompanied by military personnel believed to belong to the Wagner Group, executed several hundred people who had been rounded up." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine unveils case against Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv.&nbsp;Russia has also warned of an "extremely dangerous" escalation in case NATO continues to arm Ukraine with deadly missiles and lethal battle tanks.

US and European allies, though reluctant for some time, now seem to be again defiant in their pursuit to back Ukraine with more powerful weaponry so Kyiv can reclaim the territories it lost last year.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-ilhan-omar-ousted-from-house-foreign-affairs-committee-for-her-anti-semitic-comments-558401">Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments</a>

US had been extending defence aid to Ukraine while imposing harsh sanctions on Russia. German government also approved the delivery of Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine from its industrial stocks and their delivery could happen anytime soon, Munich newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung reported on Friday.&nbsp;

German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and military technology group Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) have also expressed their willingness saying if Kyiv is ready, they can recondition the Leopard tanks and send them to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-parliament-lifts-waives-immunity-from-prosecution-of-two-lawmakers-in-graft-probe-558350">EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe</a>

Meanwhile, Berlin is also in talks over purchasing back 15 Gepard tanks from Qatar, which the country purchased to secure World Cup Stadiums, to send to Kyiv.&nbsp;In a statement, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "The Gepards have proven themselves very well in the war in Ukraine. If we could get more from partners here, that would definitely help the Ukrainians."&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-operation-miracle-save-the-oceans-rarest-marine-mammal-wion-climate-tracker-558397">Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal?&nbsp;</a>

Ahead of the 24th summit of the European Union and Ukrainian leaders that is due to begin in Kyiv, the US agreed to send longer-range bombs to Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's offensive.&nbsp;These ground-launched small-diameter bombs are part of a $2.17 billion aid package which is expected to be announced on Friday.

Moreover, the UK defence minister on Thursday also said that he did not rule out supplying Ukraine with fighter jets while cautioning they would not be a "magic wand" in the war.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday vowed to defeat Ukraine and emerge victorious in the ongoing war. The West is certainly looking at this as a renewed Russian tempo in its fight against Kyiv. Russia has also warned of an "extremely dangerous" escalation in case NATO continues to arm Ukraine with deadly missiles and lethal battle tanks. US and European allies, though reluctant for some time, now seem to be again defiant in their pursuit to back Ukraine with more powerful weaponry so Kyiv can reclaim the territories it lost last year. Also Read | Democrat Ilhan Omar ousted from House Foreign Affairs Committee for her anti-Semitic comments US had been extending defence aid to Ukraine while imposing harsh sanctions on Russia. German government also approved the delivery of Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine from its industrial stocks and their delivery could happen anytime soon, Munich newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung reported on Friday. German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and military technology group Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) have also expressed their willingness saying if Kyiv is ready, they can recondition the Leopard tanks and send them to Ukraine. Also Read | EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe Meanwhile, Berlin is also in talks over purchasing back 15 Gepard tanks from Qatar, which the country purchased to secure World Cup Stadiums, to send to Kyiv. In a statement, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "The Gepards have proven themselves very well in the war in Ukraine. If we could get more from partners here, that would definitely help the Ukrainians." Watch | Will 'Operation Miracle' save the ocean's rarest marine mammal? Ahead of the 24th summit of the European Union and Ukrainian leaders that is due to begin in Kyiv, the US agreed to send longer-range bombs to Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's offensive. These ground-launched small-diameter bombs are part of a $2.17 billion aid package which is expected to be announced on Friday. Moreover, the UK defence minister on Thursday also said that he did not rule out supplying Ukraine with fighter jets while cautioning they would not be a "magic wand" in the war. 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.

From Leopard tanks to longer-range bombs, NATO scrambles to arm Ukraine

Is Russia planning a new offensive? Ukraine's Defence Minister says Putin could launch a new offensive on February 24. Is there any credit to his claims? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Is Russia planning a new offensive?

Ankit Tuteja tells you about a new rocket-powered bomb that could double Ukraine's strike range.

Tech It Out: The new game-changing weapon for Ukraine?

In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement.&nbsp;No commitments were made by Netanyahu to Ukraine, as Israel preserves its relationship with Russia, which has control on the skies in Syria and has not reacted to strikes made by Israel on targets of arch-nemesis Iran.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-calls-for-calm-amid-israel-palestine-tensions-netanyahu-evokes-iran-nuclear-weapons-557435">Blinken calls for calm amid Israel-Palestine tensions; Netanyahu evokes Iran nuclear weapons</a>

In an interview with CNN, when asked if assistance could be provided by Israel to Ukraine, like the US-backed technology Iron Dome which defends Israel from air attack, Netanyahu said, "Well, I'm certainly looking into it."

He added that the stockpile of artillery, which belongs to the United States and is stationed in Israel, has been shifted to Ukraine and he looks at the operations against Iran as part of a similar effort.

"The US just took a huge chunk of Israel's munitions and passed it on to Ukraine. Israel also, frankly, acts in ways that I will not itemise here against Iran's weapons productions which are used against Ukraine," Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu added that appeals were made to him to mediate in an unofficial role after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February, however, he did not go ahead as he was then in opposition.

WATCH | WION Exclusive: 'We have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction', says Benny Gantz

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He added that he was willing to mediate if the US and other parties ask Israel again.

"I've been around long enough to know that there has to be a right time and the right circumstances. If they arise, I'll certainly consider it," Netanyahu said. He added that said believed the Ukraine war was of "monumental importance" but, he further stated, "we have our own backyard to deal with."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement.

In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement. No commitments were made by Netanyahu to Ukraine, as Israel preserves its relationship with Russia, which has control on the skies in Syria and has not reacted to strikes made by Israel on targets of arch-nemesis Iran. ALSO READ | Blinken calls for calm amid Israel-Palestine tensions; Netanyahu evokes Iran nuclear weapons In an interview with CNN, when asked if assistance could be provided by Israel to Ukraine, like the US-backed technology Iron Dome which defends Israel from air attack, Netanyahu said, "Well, I'm certainly looking into it." He added that the stockpile of artillery, which belongs to the United States and is stationed in Israel, has been shifted to Ukraine and he looks at the operations against Iran as part of a similar effort. "The US just took a huge chunk of Israel's munitions and passed it on to Ukraine. Israel also, frankly, acts in ways that I will not itemise here against Iran's weapons productions which are used against Ukraine," Netanyahu said. Netanyahu added that appeals were made to him to mediate in an unofficial role after Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February, however, he did not go ahead as he was then in opposition. WATCH | WION Exclusive: 'We have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction', says Benny Gantz He added that he was willing to mediate if the US and other parties ask Israel again. "I've been around long enough to know that there has to be a right time and the right circumstances. If they arise, I'll certainly consider it," Netanyahu said. He added that said believed the Ukraine war was of "monumental importance" but, he further stated, "we have our own backyard to deal with." (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

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Thursday (February 2) accused the United States of having been directly involved in Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions. He was speaking in an interview on state TV and he offered no evidence to substantiate his claims. Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin had accused Britain of blowing up the pipelines. The accusation was denied promptly by the UK then.

In the interview, Lavrov also claimed that the West was lying about Russia's refusal to negotiate to end Ukraine crisis. He additionally alleged that there were attempts from the West to turn Moldova, Georgia and ex-Soviet republics in Central Asia against Russia.&nbsp;

Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Ukraine has received aid and weapons from western countries.

Gravitas: Is NATO tired of Ukraine's demands?

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Lavrov, on Thursday, accused the West of wanting to inflict lasting defeat against Moscow. He lashed out against&nbsp;European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen as she visited Kyiv.

"Ursula von der Leyen... said that the outcome of the war should be the defeat of Russia, the kind of defeat that for decades, for many decades, Russia cannot restore its economy," Lavrov said in comments aired on Russian state television.

"Is this not racism, not Nazism -- not an attempt to solve 'the Russian question'" Lavrov added, evoking Russia's victory against Nazi Germany in World War II.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-planning-2-billion-package-for-ukraine-that-includes-longer-range-rockets-557889">US planning $2 billion package for Ukraine that includes longer-range rockets</a>

The European Commission chief announced she had arrived in Kyiv with a team of commissioners and the bloc's most senior diplomat earlier on Thursday, a day before a Ukraine-EU summit in the war-torn country.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Thursday (February 2) accused the United States of having been directly involved in Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Thursday (February 2) accused the United States of having been directly involved in Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions. He was speaking in an interview on state TV and he offered no evidence to substantiate his claims. Previously, Russian President Vladimir Putin had accused Britain of blowing up the pipelines. The accusation was denied promptly by the UK then. In the interview, Lavrov also claimed that the West was lying about Russia's refusal to negotiate to end Ukraine crisis. He additionally alleged that there were attempts from the West to turn Moldova, Georgia and ex-Soviet republics in Central Asia against Russia. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained territorial gains in the first few months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks. Ukraine has received aid and weapons from western countries. Gravitas: Is NATO tired of Ukraine's demands? × Lavrov, on Thursday, accused the West of wanting to inflict lasting defeat against Moscow. He lashed out against European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen as she visited Kyiv. "Ursula von der Leyen... said that the outcome of the war should be the defeat of Russia, the kind of defeat that for decades, for many decades, Russia cannot restore its economy," Lavrov said in comments aired on Russian state television. "Is this not racism, not Nazism -- not an attempt to solve 'the Russian question'" Lavrov added, evoking Russia's victory against Nazi Germany in World War II. Also Read | US planning $2 billion package for Ukraine that includes longer-range rockets The European Commission chief announced she had arrived in Kyiv with a team of commissioners and the bloc's most senior diplomat earlier on Thursday, a day before a Ukraine-EU summit in the war-torn country. (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 ×

US directly involved in Nord Stream blasts, claims Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov

Is sympathy for Ukraine waning? Is NATO growing tired of Ukraine's demands? U.S. has refused to send F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Germany wants the West to focus on domestic issues. Why is this happening? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Is NATO tired of Ukraine's demands?

Ukrainian&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;player Elina Svitolina called on Wednesday for Russian and Belarusian athletes to be banned from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris due to Moscow's invasion of her country, hours after Latvia joined Kyiv's threats of a boycott. Ukraine's sports minister said on Tuesday that his country was seeking to secure widespread international support for banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from the 2024 Olympics because of the war.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has opened the door for Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutrals in Paris. Athletes from Russia and Belarus, which aided President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago, have been largely banned from international competitions since. Moscow says it is defending its own security and denies accusations of widespread atrocities in Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japanese-football-star-to-join-this-portuguese-club-aged-55-558173">Japanese football star to join this Portuguese club aged 55</a>

Latvia's National Olympic Committee (NOC) said in a statement on Wednesday that participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Olympic Games under any flag was unacceptable as long as the war was ongoing. 
 
"The Olympics are the biggest dream and ultimate privilege for athletes. They are the largest platform for inclusion and diversity in sports, capturing the attention of the world," Svitolina said in a statement on Twitter. "With this in mind we must stick to banning Russian and Belarusian athletes... that we are united in the sanctions imposed against Russia and Belarus and that there are consequences for the heinous acts of their governments. 
 
"Their lives cannot continue as normal and the world, nor the Russian and Belarusian people, can be ignorant of the atrocities they are committing in Ukraine."

Svitolina, married to fellow&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;player Gael Monfils, reached her career-high ranking of world number three in 2017 and has not played since giving birth to her first child last year. 
 
&nbsp;

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Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina called on Wednesday for Russian and Belarusian athletes to be banned from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris due to Moscow's invasion of her country, hours after Latvia joined Kyiv's threats of a boycott.

Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina called on Wednesday for Russian and Belarusian athletes to be banned from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris due to Moscow's invasion of her country, hours after Latvia joined Kyiv's threats of a boycott. Ukraine's sports minister said on Tuesday that his country was seeking to secure widespread international support for banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from the 2024 Olympics because of the war. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has opened the door for Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutrals in Paris. Athletes from Russia and Belarus, which aided President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine nearly a year ago, have been largely banned from international competitions since. Moscow says it is defending its own security and denies accusations of widespread atrocities in Ukraine. Also read: Japanese football star to join this Portuguese club aged 55 Latvia's National Olympic Committee (NOC) said in a statement on Wednesday that participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Olympic Games under any flag was unacceptable as long as the war was ongoing. "The Olympics are the biggest dream and ultimate privilege for athletes. They are the largest platform for inclusion and diversity in sports, capturing the attention of the world," Svitolina said in a statement on Twitter. "With this in mind we must stick to banning Russian and Belarusian athletes... that we are united in the sanctions imposed against Russia and Belarus and that there are consequences for the heinous acts of their governments. "Their lives cannot continue as normal and the world, nor the Russian and Belarusian people, can be ignorant of the atrocities they are committing in Ukraine." Svitolina, married to fellow tennis player Gael Monfils, reached her career-high ranking of world number three in 2017 and has not played since giving birth to her first child last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Paris Olympics: Ukraine's Elina Svitolina calls for ban on Russians and Belarusians

According to the defence minister of Ukraine, Russia is preparing a significant new offensive that might start as early as February 24. Oleksii Reznikov claimed that Moscow had gathered thousands of soldiers and could "try something" to commemorate the first invasion anniversary last year.

War in Ukraine | Ukrainian Defence Minister: Russia planning 24 February offensive

The United States is readying a $2.2 billion package of military aid for Ukraine that is expected to include longer-range rockets for the first time, and other munitions and weapons.

US to send new $2.2 billion weapon aid with longer-range weapons

The Russia-Ukraine war will complete one year on February 24 this year, however, there is no end in sight with many still unsure of what the future holds for them.&nbsp;Amid the bomb shellings and the sanctions&nbsp;since Russia invaded Ukrainian territory a year ago, stories emerge from the battleground every now and then that shake people to their core.&nbsp;In an interview with CNN, a former Wagner mercenary narrates his experience from ground zero where he speaks about the brutality he witnessed in Ukraine. Andrei Medvedev, who is presently seeking asylum in Norway's Oslo, talked at length and gave an insider story about the Wagner group, a private military company which Russia is reportedly using to mobilise hundreds of mercenary soldiers.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-three-year-pilot-programme-to-decriminalise-possession-of-illicit-drugs-begins-in-bc-557691">Canada’s three-year pilot programme to decriminalise possession of illicit drugs begins in BC</a>

Andrei Medvedev shed light on how the Wagner fighters often have no clue when they are pushed into the battle. 26-year-old Medvedev, who joined the group as a volunteer, also described Wagner's behaviour towards the fighters as ruthless.&nbsp;

He even went on saying, “They would round up those who did not want to fight and shoot them in front of newcomers."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/norways-sovereign-wealth-fund-suffers-historic-losses-of-164-billion-557679">Norway's sovereign wealth fund suffers historic losses of $164 billion</a>

“They brought two prisoners who refused to go fight and shot them in front of everyone and buried them right in the trenches that were dug by the trainees.” Medvedev signed his contract in July 2022 and moved to Ukraine after 10 days of signing. He termed the Wagner group founders, Dmitry Utkin and Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin, as “the devil”.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-beijing-says-city-has-achieved-temporary-herd-immunity-557708">China: Beijing says city has achieved 'temporary herd immunity'</a>

“If (Prigozhin) was a Russian hero, he would have taken a gun and run with the soldiers,” Medvedev said. The bitterness is mutual as Wagner earlier said that Medvedev “should have been prosecuted for attempting to mistreat prisoners”.

“There were more dead bodies and more, and more, people coming in. In the end, I had a lot of people under my command,” Medvedev said, adding, “I couldn’t count how many. They were in constant circulation. Dead bodies, more prisoners, more dead bodies, more prisoners.”

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The Russia-Ukraine war will complete one year on February 24 this year, however, there is no end in sight with many still unsure of what the future holds for them.

The Russia-Ukraine war will complete one year on February 24 this year, however, there is no end in sight with many still unsure of what the future holds for them. Amid the bomb shellings and the sanctions since Russia invaded Ukrainian territory a year ago, stories emerge from the battleground every now and then that shake people to their core. In an interview with CNN, a former Wagner mercenary narrates his experience from ground zero where he speaks about the brutality he witnessed in Ukraine. Andrei Medvedev, who is presently seeking asylum in Norway's Oslo, talked at length and gave an insider story about the Wagner group, a private military company which Russia is reportedly using to mobilise hundreds of mercenary soldiers. Also Read | Canada’s three-year pilot programme to decriminalise possession of illicit drugs begins in BC Andrei Medvedev shed light on how the Wagner fighters often have no clue when they are pushed into the battle. 26-year-old Medvedev, who joined the group as a volunteer, also described Wagner's behaviour towards the fighters as ruthless. He even went on saying, “They would round up those who did not want to fight and shoot them in front of newcomers." Also Read | Norway's sovereign wealth fund suffers historic losses of $164 billion “They brought two prisoners who refused to go fight and shot them in front of everyone and buried them right in the trenches that were dug by the trainees.” Medvedev signed his contract in July 2022 and moved to Ukraine after 10 days of signing. He termed the Wagner group founders, Dmitry Utkin and Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin, as “the devil”. Watch | China: Beijing says city has achieved 'temporary herd immunity' “If (Prigozhin) was a Russian hero, he would have taken a gun and run with the soldiers,” Medvedev said. The bitterness is mutual as Wagner earlier said that Medvedev “should have been prosecuted for attempting to mistreat prisoners”. “There were more dead bodies and more, and more, people coming in. In the end, I had a lot of people under my command,” Medvedev said, adding, “I couldn’t count how many. They were in constant circulation. Dead bodies, more prisoners, more dead bodies, more prisoners.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wagner Group defector recalls horrific killings of non-submissive fighters in Ukraine

A coalition of 12 nations will deliver 120 to 140 Western tanks to Ukraine in the "first wave" of deliveries, according to foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba. This month, as Moscow stepped up its efforts to win small-scale gains in eastern Ukraine, Kyiv was able to get commitments from the West to provide main battle tanks to help thwart an invasion.

War in Ukraine: Kyiv to get 120-140 Western tanks in first installment

In Ukraine, Russian forces claimed big gains in the Eastern province of Donetsk as the focus of the war intensifies. According to the Ukrainian forces, Russia is reaching farther West in Donetsk.

Russia Ukraine War: US readies $2.4 bn Ukraine aid package; Zelensky lobbying hard for NATO jets

Polls done in United States, United Kingdom and Germany suggested that the willingness to support Ukraine against Russia's invasion is falling among its allies. The war between Russia and Ukraine will become a year old by end of this month.

Russia Ukraine War: Are Ukraine allies tired of war? Polls held to know people's view on aid to Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in the southern city of Mykolayiv. Zelensky thanked Frederiksen for the help provided by Denmark.

Ukrainian President Zelensky meets Danish PM Mette Frederiksen in Mykolaiv

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) rejected fierce criticism from Ukrainian officials, who have accused it of promoting war after the body said Russians could potentially be given the opportunity to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

WION Fineprint: IOC rejects defamatory criticism from Ukraine

A day after Ukraine slammed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for attempting to find ways to allow Russian athletes to compete, Moscow has responded. Russia's Olympic Committee chief Stanislav Pozdnyakov on Tuesday said Russian athletes should not be subjected to different conditions from those of other countries.

A day after Ukraine slammed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for attempting to find ways to allow Russian athletes to compete, Moscow has responded. Russia's Olympic Committee chief Stanislav Pozdnyakov on Tuesday said Russian athletes should not be subjected to different conditions from those of other countries. "Russians must participate exactly on the same conditions as all other athletes. Any additional conditions or criteria are unwelcome, especially any that have political overtones, which are completely unacceptable for the Olympic movement," said Pozdnyakov. On Monday, Ukraine's presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak took to Twitter to post a message, terming IOC as a 'promoter of war'. "(The) IOC is a promoter of war, murder and destruction. The IOC watches with pleasure Russia destroying Ukraine and then offers Russia a platform to promote genocide and encourages their further killings," tweeted Podolyak. "Obviously Russian money that buys Olympic hypocrisy doesn't have a smell of Ukrainian blood. Right, Mr Bach? added the presidential aide, referring to IOC president Thomas Bach. #IOC is a promoter of war, murder & destruction. The IOC watches with pleasure RF destroying 🇺🇦 & then offers 🇷🇺 a platform to promote genocide & encourages their further killings. Obviously ru-money that buys Olympic hypocrisy doesn’t have a smell of 🇺🇦 blood. Right, Mr. #Bach? — Михайло Подоляк (@Podolyak_M) January 30, 2023 × Read more: 'Promoter of war, murder...': Ukraine slams International Olympic Committee Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publically batted for no Russian athlete to be allowed at the 2024 Paris Olympics. "We must be sure that Russia will not be able to use it (the Olympics) or any other international sporting event to promote aggression or its state chauvinism." Ukraine's sports minister has already issued a warning that his country and its athletes will boycott the 2024 Olympics if IOC continues to entertain the Russians. The verbal attacks from the Russian and Ukrainian officials come in the backdrop of the IOC hinting that it could allow Russian athletes to compete in the quadrennial competition as neutrals. The IOC said that "no athlete should be prevented from competing just because of their passport". "Respect the rights of all athletes to be treated without any discrimination, in accordance with the Olympic Charter. Governments must not decide which athletes can participate in which competition and which athletes cannot." Read more: IOC to explore pathway for Russian, Belarusian athletes to compete in Paris Olympics Both Russia and its ally Belarus have been pushed to the fringes of most Olympic sports, following Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine last year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Russians must compete...': Moscow responds as Ukraine threatens Paris Olympics boycott

NATO will continue to strengthen its partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Tuesday (January 31) during a visit to Japan, where he will meet with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

NATO to strengthen partnership with Japan amid the ongoing Ukraine war

Ukraines plan for getting new weaponry from the West has received a setback. US President Joe Biden has rejected advanced fighter jets. The US President made the revelation on Monday while taking questions from news reporters upon being asked if US would be supplying F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. His response was a straight no.

US: Setback to Ukraine's quest for advance fighter jets, Biden rejects F-16 to Ukraine

France and Australia’s defence ministers Sebastien Lecornu and Richard Marles on Monday said that they will supply 155 mm shells jointly to Ukraine which is needed for the artillery sent by the West since the invasion of Russia.

France's Lecornu said that "several thousand 155 mm shells will be manufactured jointly" by French arms supplier Nexter, as Marles added the plan will have a "multi-million-dollar" price tag.

The Australian minister added that the ammunition supplies fit into "the ongoing level of support both France and Australia are providing Ukraine to make sure Ukraine is able to stay in this conflict and... see it concluded on its own terms.”

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-eu-official-claims-russia-is-now-at-war-with-nato-and-the-west-556543">Ukraine war: EU official says ‘Russia has changed ‘special operation’ into war with NATO and West’</a>

Lecornu stated that the military assistance would be "significant" and "an effort that will be kept up over time", as the first deliveries have been scheduled for the first quarter of 2023.

Marles stated "there are some unique capabilities that exist in Australia and some synergies that can be achieved by Australia and France working together" for manufacturing the shells.

Lecornu said that the manufacturing will be carried out by Nexter while gunpowder will be supplied by Australia. &nbsp;

The defence ministers of the two countries met alongside the foreign ministers of both nations, Catherine Colonna and Penny Wong, as Australia and France aim to relaunch co-operation.

WATCH | WION Fineprint: How long can the West keep supplying Ukraine?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-how-long-can-the-west-keep-supplying-ukraine-541681/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The relationship between the nations was hit in 2021 when a French submarine contract was dropped by Canberra in favour of American subs, and Australia joined the AUKUS Pacific alliance with Washington and London.

Marles appreciated "personal warmth between the four of us", with the ministers emphasising the need to "relaunch" or "rebuild" the relationship in various ways.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

France and Australia’s defence ministers Sebastien Lecornu and Richard Marles on Monday said that they will supply 155 mm shells jointly to Ukraine which is needed for the artillery sent by the West since the invasion of Russia.

France and Australia’s defence ministers Sebastien Lecornu and Richard Marles on Monday said that they will supply 155 mm shells jointly to Ukraine which is needed for the artillery sent by the West since the invasion of Russia. France's Lecornu said that "several thousand 155 mm shells will be manufactured jointly" by French arms supplier Nexter, as Marles added the plan will have a "multi-million-dollar" price tag. The Australian minister added that the ammunition supplies fit into "the ongoing level of support both France and Australia are providing Ukraine to make sure Ukraine is able to stay in this conflict and... see it concluded on its own terms.” ALSO READ | Ukraine war: EU official says ‘Russia has changed ‘special operation’ into war with NATO and West’ Lecornu stated that the military assistance would be "significant" and "an effort that will be kept up over time", as the first deliveries have been scheduled for the first quarter of 2023. Marles stated "there are some unique capabilities that exist in Australia and some synergies that can be achieved by Australia and France working together" for manufacturing the shells. Lecornu said that the manufacturing will be carried out by Nexter while gunpowder will be supplied by Australia. The defence ministers of the two countries met alongside the foreign ministers of both nations, Catherine Colonna and Penny Wong, as Australia and France aim to relaunch co-operation. WATCH | WION Fineprint: How long can the West keep supplying Ukraine? The relationship between the nations was hit in 2021 when a French submarine contract was dropped by Canberra in favour of American subs, and Australia joined the AUKUS Pacific alliance with Washington and London. Marles appreciated "personal warmth between the four of us", with the ministers emphasising the need to "relaunch" or "rebuild" the relationship in various ways. (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

France, Australia to provide artillery shells to Ukraine

In the latest BBC documentary, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson made shocking claims when he said in the run-up to the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened him with a missile strike. Meanwhile, the latest Russian bombardments on Ukraine have left several dead in Kherson. &nbsp;

In other news, the Pakistan election will have polls for 33 National Assembly seats and former premier Imran Khan will throw his hat in the ring for all of them. The Election Commission of Pakistan has set the date for the polls on 33 assembly seats for 16 March.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-a-missile-it-would-only-take-a-minute-boris-johnson-reveals-he-got-threats-from-putin-557118">'With a missile, it would only take a minute' Boris Johnson reveals he got threats from Putin&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/30/328901-untitled-design-2023-01-30t080717277.png?imwidth=1920" />

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made some chilling revelations in a latest BBC Documentary, Putin vs the West, where he claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened him with a missile strike ahead of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-latest-atrocious-attack-on-kherson-kharkiv-leave-four-dead-557115">Russia's latest 'atrocious' attacks on Kherson, Kharkiv kills four, including two nurses&nbsp;&nbsp;</a> &nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/30/328894-new-wion-10.png?imwidth=1920" />

The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-bypolls-for-33-vacant-national-assembly-seats-in-march-imran-to-contest-on-all-557108">Pakistan bypolls for 33 vacant National Assembly seats in March, Imran to contest on all&nbsp;&nbsp; </a>&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/30/328891-untitled-design-2023-01-30t081643845.png?imwidth=1920" />

After mass resignation from Imran Khan's party lawmakers in mid-January, the Pakistan election body is now gearing up for polls for 33 National Assembly seats, on all of which Imran Khan will throw his hat in the ring. The Election Commission of Pakistan has set the date for the polls on 33 assembly seats for 16 March. Earlier, on 17 January, the seats got vacant after assembly Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf accepted 35 more resignations.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-rules-out-ukraines-demand-for-fighter-jets-zelensky-urges-for-faster-supplies-new-weapons-557105">Germany won't send fighter jets to Ukraine; Zelensky urges for faster supplies, new weapons&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/19/289051-zp2x3vnpjrkxzmglid6tawm5dy.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday (January 29) that Germany will not send fighter jets to Ukraine. His remarks come after Berlin agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Kyiv amid intense pressure from other European counties.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-general-assembly-president-says-india-looking-for-solutions-for-many-other-countries-557104">UN General Assembly president says India looking for solutions for many other countries&nbsp;&nbsp; </a>&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/30/328884-csaba-korosi.png?imwidth=1920" />

United Nations General Assembly President Csaba Korosi hailed India and called the South Asian nation "one of the leaders of the Global South". Korosi said that India is not only looking for solutions own problems but in many instances, has looked for many other countries as well.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the latest BBC documentary, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson made shocking claims when he said in the run-up to the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened him with a missile strike.

In the latest BBC documentary, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson made shocking claims when he said in the run-up to the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened him with a missile strike. Meanwhile, the latest Russian bombardments on Ukraine have left several dead in Kherson. In other news, the Pakistan election will have polls for 33 National Assembly seats and former premier Imran Khan will throw his hat in the ring for all of them. The Election Commission of Pakistan has set the date for the polls on 33 assembly seats for 16 March. Click on the headlines to read more: 'With a missile, it would only take a minute' Boris Johnson reveals he got threats from Putin Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made some chilling revelations in a latest BBC Documentary, Putin vs the West, where he claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had threatened him with a missile strike ahead of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February. Russia's latest 'atrocious' attacks on Kherson, Kharkiv kills four, including two nurses The latest round of Russian shelling has left four dead in Ukraine. As per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday three people were killed by the shelling in the southern city of Kherson, while the Kharkiv regional governor reported the death of one person due to another strike. Pakistan bypolls for 33 vacant National Assembly seats in March, Imran to contest on all After mass resignation from Imran Khan's party lawmakers in mid-January, the Pakistan election body is now gearing up for polls for 33 National Assembly seats, on all of which Imran Khan will throw his hat in the ring. The Election Commission of Pakistan has set the date for the polls on 33 assembly seats for 16 March. Earlier, on 17 January, the seats got vacant after assembly Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf accepted 35 more resignations. Germany won't send fighter jets to Ukraine; Zelensky urges for faster supplies, new weapons Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday (January 29) that Germany will not send fighter jets to Ukraine. His remarks come after Berlin agreed to supply 14 powerful Leopard tanks to Kyiv amid intense pressure from other European counties. UN General Assembly president says India looking for solutions for many other countries United Nations General Assembly President Csaba Korosi hailed India and called the South Asian nation "one of the leaders of the Global South". Korosi said that India is not only looking for solutions own problems but in many instances, has looked for many other countries as well.

Morning news brief: Former UK PM reveals Putin threatened him, Imran Khan to contest in NA bypolls and more

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