A single Iranian drone shot down in Ukraine has been found to be containing parts manufactured by more than dozen American companies, reported CNN citing an assessment made by Ukranian intelligence. The report said that out of 52 components obtained from the Iranian drone, 40 were found to be manufactured by American companies. The rest 12 were manufactured by companies in other western companies and China.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in first few months, Russian forces has to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. This resulted in Ukraine recapturing thousands of square kilometres of lost land. Russia then resorted to missile and drone attacks.

Iran-made drones have been used by Russia by hundreds in the ongoing conflict. Iran has admitted to providing drones to Russia but has claimed that these drones were provided before the start of Ukraine conflict. International critics are a bit sceptical of this assertion.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-reports-fresh-strikes-as-putins-unilateral-ceasefire-starts-550022">Ukraine reports fresh strikes as Putin's unilateral ceasefire starts</a>

US has been imposing sanctions on Iran for years to prevent it from acquiring high-end material and equipment. But now US is planning to ensure better enforceability of these sanctions by asking companies to better monitor where their products end up and if any third party is selling those to bad actors.&nbsp;

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A single Iranian drone shot down in Ukraine has been found to be containing parts manufactured by more than dozen American companies, reported CNN citing an assessment made by Ukranian intelligence.

A single Iranian drone shot down in Ukraine has been found to be containing parts manufactured by more than dozen American companies, reported CNN citing an assessment made by Ukranian intelligence. The report said that out of 52 components obtained from the Iranian drone, 40 were found to be manufactured by American companies. The rest 12 were manufactured by companies in other western companies and China. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in first few months, Russian forces has to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. This resulted in Ukraine recapturing thousands of square kilometres of lost land. Russia then resorted to missile and drone attacks. Iran-made drones have been used by Russia by hundreds in the ongoing conflict. Iran has admitted to providing drones to Russia but has claimed that these drones were provided before the start of Ukraine conflict. International critics are a bit sceptical of this assertion. Also Read | Ukraine reports fresh strikes as Putin's unilateral ceasefire starts US has been imposing sanctions on Iran for years to prevent it from acquiring high-end material and equipment. But now US is planning to ensure better enforceability of these sanctions by asking companies to better monitor where their products end up and if any third party is selling those to bad actors. 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 ×

Iranian drone found to contain part made by US companies: Report

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has disbanded a fact-finding mission into an attack that took place in front line Ukrainian town of Olenivka, said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday (January 5). This attack, which took place in the month of July killed prisoners held by Moscow-backed separatists. The fact-finding mission has been disbanded because the UN mission cannot deploy to the site. The investigation into the attack was requested by both, Russia and Ukraine. Secretary-General Guterres had announced the investigation in August last year.

On Thursday, Guterres also commented on a possible ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. He said he would welcome any truce in Ukraine during Orthodox Christmas “knowing that this will not replace a just peace in line with the U.N. Charter and international law,” according to Dujarric.

On Thursday, Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered a ceasefire on January 6 and 7.

The Kremlin said in a statement: "Taking into account the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, I (Putin) instruct the defence minister of the Russian Federation to introduce from 12:00 (0900 GMT) on January 6, 2023 until 24:00 (2100 GMT) on January 7, 2023 a ceasefire along the entire line of contact between the sides in Ukraine."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-orders-ceasefire-in-ukraine-on-january-6-7-549807">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy'</a>

In the order, Putin said that "proceeding from the fact that a large number of citizens professing Orthodoxy live in the areas of hostilities, we call on the Ukrainian side to declare a ceasefire and allow them to attend services on Christmas Eve, as well as on Christmas Day."&nbsp;

Ukraine has rejected the ceasefire offer calling it 'hypocrisy'.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has disbanded a fact-finding mission into an attack that took place in front line Ukrainian town of Olenivka, said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday (January 5).

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has disbanded a fact-finding mission into an attack that took place in front line Ukrainian town of Olenivka, said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday (January 5). This attack, which took place in the month of July killed prisoners held by Moscow-backed separatists. The fact-finding mission has been disbanded because the UN mission cannot deploy to the site. The investigation into the attack was requested by both, Russia and Ukraine. Secretary-General Guterres had announced the investigation in August last year. On Thursday, Guterres also commented on a possible ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. He said he would welcome any truce in Ukraine during Orthodox Christmas “knowing that this will not replace a just peace in line with the U.N. Charter and international law,” according to Dujarric. On Thursday, Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered a ceasefire on January 6 and 7. The Kremlin said in a statement: "Taking into account the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, I (Putin) instruct the defence minister of the Russian Federation to introduce from 12:00 (0900 GMT) on January 6, 2023 until 24:00 (2100 GMT) on January 7, 2023 a ceasefire along the entire line of contact between the sides in Ukraine." Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: Putin offers Orthodox Christmas truce, Ukraine rejects it as 'hypocrisy' In the order, Putin said that "proceeding from the fact that a large number of citizens professing Orthodoxy live in the areas of hostilities, we call on the Ukrainian side to declare a ceasefire and allow them to attend services on Christmas Eve, as well as on Christmas Day." Ukraine has rejected the ceasefire offer calling it 'hypocrisy'. (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 ×

UN discontinues investigation into Ukraine prison attack

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday dismissed the order on a ceasefire by Russian President Vladimir Putin calling it as 'hypocrisy'. Watch this video to know more.

Ukraine rejects Russian truce order as U.S. and Germany sends combat vehicles

French President Emmanuel Macron told his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday that his nation will send light tanks produced in France to help battle off the Russian invasion. "The president wanted to increase... aid" to Ukraine "by accepting to deliver AMX-10 RC light tanks", an aide said after both leaders spoke by telephone.&nbsp;"It is the first time that Western-designed tanks are supplied to the Ukrainian armed forces."

At present there is no information on how many tanks will be sent out or when they would arrive.&nbsp;The defence ministers of various nations will shortly address these specifics, as announced&nbsp;by&nbsp;the French defence ministry.&nbsp;

Also watch | WION Fineprint: French baguettes under threat as bakers face electricity price hikes

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The AMX-10 RC tanks are "perhaps old but high-performance" and "very mobile" because of their low weight and wheels.

Zelensky thanked Macron "for the decision to transfer light tanks" to Ukraine, he said on Twitter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-new-years-attack-russia-blames-mobile-phones-for-missile-strike-in-makiivka-that-killed-89-549226">Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89</a>

In addition to armoured personnel carriers, Paris has previously sent Ukraine rocket launchers, air defence missile systems, and anti-tank, and anti-aircraft missiles.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron told his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday that his nation will send light tanks produced in France to help battle off the Russian invasion.

French President Emmanuel Macron told his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday that his nation will send light tanks produced in France to help battle off the Russian invasion. "The president wanted to increase... aid" to Ukraine "by accepting to deliver AMX-10 RC light tanks", an aide said after both leaders spoke by telephone. "It is the first time that Western-designed tanks are supplied to the Ukrainian armed forces." At present there is no information on how many tanks will be sent out or when they would arrive. The defence ministers of various nations will shortly address these specifics, as announced by the French defence ministry. Also watch | WION Fineprint: French baguettes under threat as bakers face electricity price hikes The AMX-10 RC tanks are "perhaps old but high-performance" and "very mobile" because of their low weight and wheels. Zelensky thanked Macron "for the decision to transfer light tanks" to Ukraine, he said on Twitter. Also read | Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89 In addition to armoured personnel carriers, Paris has previously sent Ukraine rocket launchers, air defence missile systems, and anti-tank, and anti-aircraft missiles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Macron promises Zelensky light combat tanks to help battle Russian forces

President Vladimir Putin said Russia will halt fighting in Ukraine temporarily for the Orthodox Christmas. Putin said he made the decision for a two-day cease-fire, beginning Friday, after a request from the Moscow patriarch of the Orthodox Church, who is known as Kirill.

Russia declares two-day ceasefire in Ukraine for Orthodox Christmas

President Vladimir Putin, in his conversation with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said he was willing to hold talks with Ukraine if the latter is ready to accept territories which have been occupied by Russia, said the Kremlin on Thursday.&nbsp;"Putin again confirmed Russia's openness to serious dialogue on the condition of Kyiv authorities fulfilling the well-known and repeatedly voiced requirements of taking into account the new territorial realities," the Kremlin's statement read.&nbsp;

Large parts of southern and eastern Ukraine have been occupied by Russia. The Kremlin claims to have captured the Zaporizhzhia, Lugansk, Donetsk and Kherson regions, although they don't entirely control them.&nbsp;

"The Russian side emphasised the destructive role of Western states, pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons and military equipment, providing it with operational information and targets," the statement read.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-in-talks-with-russia-about-using-syrian-airspace-in-potential-operation-546388">Turkey in talks with Russia about using Syrian airspace in potential operation</a>

The two leaders also talked about the landmark grain deal's implementation, which was brokered by the UN with Turkey's help, for restoring the delivery of Ukrainian grain across the Black Sea.&nbsp;

The Kremlin stated that the two leaders talked about "the unblocking of food and fertiliser supplies from Russia" and the need for "the removal of all barriers to Russian exports." &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Erdogan appealed to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to announce a "unilateral" ceasefire in the war-ravaged Ukraine.&nbsp;

"President Erdogan said that calls for peace and negotiations should be supported by a unilateral ceasefire and a vision for a fair solution," Erdogan's office quoted the Turkish president as saying during a telephonic conversation with Putin.&nbsp;

Later on Thursday, the Turkish president was scheduled to hold a separate meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Erdogan has been trying to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv, as he shares good relations with both countries, to end the war.&nbsp;

Repeated attempts have been made by Erdogan to invite both Zelensky and Putin to Ankara for a peace summit.

WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey: Headscarf debate reaches Parliament; Turkish feminists condemn Erdogan's move

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The appeal for a 'unilateral' ceasefire was made by Erdogan after Russia's spiritual leader Patriarch Kirill had earlier on Thursday called for an Orthodox Christmas truce.

"I, Kirill, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, appeal to all the parties involved in the internecine conflict to cease fire and establish a Christmas truce from 12.00 on January 6 until 24.00 on January 7 so that Orthodox people can attend services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day," he stated.

President Erdogan has maintained good ties with Putin by not joining the West in imposing sanctions on Russia and increasing bilateral trade amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Now, the two leaders have tentative plans of establishing a natural gas hub in Ankara which can provide an alternate way to Russia for supplying Europe with fuel.&nbsp;

The office of President Erdogan stated that Ankara "has strengthened and will continue to strengthen the infrastructure" of the proposed hub. Both the leaders hope to "implement (the project) as soon as possible", stated Erdogan's office.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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President Vladimir Putin, in his conversation with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said he was willing to hold talks with Ukraine if the latter is ready to accept territories which have been occupied by Russia, said the Kremlin on Thursday.

President Vladimir Putin, in his conversation with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said he was willing to hold talks with Ukraine if the latter is ready to accept territories which have been occupied by Russia, said the Kremlin on Thursday. "Putin again confirmed Russia's openness to serious dialogue on the condition of Kyiv authorities fulfilling the well-known and repeatedly voiced requirements of taking into account the new territorial realities," the Kremlin's statement read. Large parts of southern and eastern Ukraine have been occupied by Russia. The Kremlin claims to have captured the Zaporizhzhia, Lugansk, Donetsk and Kherson regions, although they don't entirely control them. "The Russian side emphasised the destructive role of Western states, pumping the Kyiv regime with weapons and military equipment, providing it with operational information and targets," the statement read. ALSO READ| Turkey in talks with Russia about using Syrian airspace in potential operation The two leaders also talked about the landmark grain deal's implementation, which was brokered by the UN with Turkey's help, for restoring the delivery of Ukrainian grain across the Black Sea. The Kremlin stated that the two leaders talked about "the unblocking of food and fertiliser supplies from Russia" and the need for "the removal of all barriers to Russian exports." Meanwhile, Erdogan appealed to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to announce a "unilateral" ceasefire in the war-ravaged Ukraine. "President Erdogan said that calls for peace and negotiations should be supported by a unilateral ceasefire and a vision for a fair solution," Erdogan's office quoted the Turkish president as saying during a telephonic conversation with Putin. Later on Thursday, the Turkish president was scheduled to hold a separate meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Erdogan has been trying to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv, as he shares good relations with both countries, to end the war. Repeated attempts have been made by Erdogan to invite both Zelensky and Putin to Ankara for a peace summit. WATCH | Turkey: Headscarf debate reaches Parliament; Turkish feminists condemn Erdogan's move The appeal for a 'unilateral' ceasefire was made by Erdogan after Russia's spiritual leader Patriarch Kirill had earlier on Thursday called for an Orthodox Christmas truce. "I, Kirill, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, appeal to all the parties involved in the internecine conflict to cease fire and establish a Christmas truce from 12.00 on January 6 until 24.00 on January 7 so that Orthodox people can attend services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day," he stated. President Erdogan has maintained good ties with Putin by not joining the West in imposing sanctions on Russia and increasing bilateral trade amid the ongoing war. Now, the two leaders have tentative plans of establishing a natural gas hub in Ankara which can provide an alternate way to Russia for supplying Europe with fuel. The office of President Erdogan stated that Ankara "has strengthened and will continue to strengthen the infrastructure" of the proposed hub. Both the leaders hope to "implement (the project) as soon as possible", stated Erdogan's office. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says open for dialogue if Ukraine accepts 'new territorial realities'

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; 
 
Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, in what might be the biggest attack on Moscow by Kyiv, since it began on February 24, 2021, the Kremlin in a rare announcement admitted that at least 89 of its military personnel were killed during a rocket strike by the latter.&nbsp;

The first announcement was made on Monday, by the Russian defence ministry where it acknowledged that at least 63 of its soldiers were killed in Makiivka, a small Ukrainian city in the eastern Donetsk region which has been occupied by Moscow since 2014.&nbsp;

What happened?

The strike in question, took place on New Year’s Day, Sunday, at a vocational school which was reportedly housing Russian troops at the time. According to the Russian-installed Donetsk official, Daniil Bezsonov, the attack took place the first minute after midnight. Subsequently, both Russian and Ukrainian sources began reporting on the attack.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-strike-on-russian-held-makiivka-results-in-death-of-63-soldiers-548811">Kyiv takes responsibility for Makiivka strikes which killed 63 Russian troops</a>

The senior Russian military official, Lt General Sergei Sevryukov, confirmed that Ukraine hit a temporary base in Makiivka right after midnight on January 1, using the United States-supplied HIMARS rocket system.&nbsp;

According to a statement by Moscow’s defence ministry, four rockets from the HIMARS launchers hit the building and “from the detonation of the warheads of the HIMARS rockets, the ceilings of the building collapsed.”&nbsp;

The questionable claims about the death toll

The Ukrainian army’s strategic communications department, on Sunday, said that it killed 400 mobilised Russian soldiers when it hit the school building and 300 others were injured. However, this figure had not been independently verified and later general staff of Kyiv’s armed forces said that “up to 10 units of enemy military equipment” had been destroyed, while the death toll remained unclear.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-new-years-attack-russia-blames-mobile-phones-for-missile-strike-in-makiivka-that-killed-89-549226">Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89</a>

Notably, officials in Kyiv almost never publicly claim responsibility for attacks on Russian-occupied territory. In a statement, on Wednesday, Russia’s defence ministry said 89 of its servicemen were killed in the attack on Makiivka after more bodies were discovered. They also went on to blame the unauthorised use of mobile phones by the troops, however, no evidence has been provided for this claim.&nbsp;

“It is already obvious that the main reason for what happened was the switching on and massive use - contrary to the prohibition - by personnel of mobile phones in a reach zone of enemy weapons,” said the defence ministry, as per Reuters. It added, “This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/89-killed-in-ukrainian-missile-strikes-says-russia-549262">89 killed in Ukrainian missile strikes, says Russia</a>

This is the biggest loss of life in a single attack that Russia has admitted to since the beginning of its war with Ukraine. Additionally, it was also the first information out of Russia about the death toll since last September when the defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, had said that nearly 6,000 Russian troops had been killed during the conflict up until that time.

Russian military faces backlash

Igor Girkin, the former separatist commander turned one of the highest-profile Russian nationalist military bloggers, questioned the death toll released by the military and said at least “hundreds” had been killed or wounded, according to a report by Reuters. He also attributed the death toll, which he suspects is higher, to the uncamouflaged military equipment stored at the site as well as Russia’s “untrainable” generals for the losses.

Notably, the Russian defence minister also indicated that an investigation into the attack is underway and said that the officials responsible would be brought to justice “all the necessary measures are currently being adopted to prevent this kind of tragic incident in the future”, reported BBC.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-using-its-new-years-assault-to-kill-as-many-civilians-as-possible-claim-ukrainian-officials-548574">Russia using its New Year's assault to 'kill as many civilians as possible', claim Ukrainian officials</a>

Additionally, Russian lawmaker, Sergei Mironov, also demanded that the officials who “allowed the concentration of military personnel in an unprotected building” and “all the higher authorities who did not provide the proper level of security”, be held liable for their missteps.&nbsp;

A US-based Institute for the Study of War in their analysis also noted that this attack has garnered “significant criticism of Russian military leadership in the Russian information space.” It added that there is a chance that Moscow’s air and missile campaign against Ukraine is not generating “information effects among Russia's nationalists,” or at least as well as the Kremlin had hoped.&nbsp;

Therefore, such failure hinders his efforts of retaining the dominant narrative in the domestic information space and could complicate matters for Russian President Vladimir Putin trying to appease the pro-war community in Moscow, said the US-based institute.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-tells-russian-people-putin-is-waging-a-war-to-stay-in-power-until-the-end-of-his-life-548485">Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them</a>

Furthermore, they speculate that Russia’s defence ministry would attempt to “deflect the blame” for their “poor operational security” on local officials and mobilised personnel. Regardless, the sentiment of discontent after the attack is evident, with several people including war correspondents and people close to the separatists having taken to media platforms since and criticised the Russian military leadership.&nbsp;

It can also be noted in a rare public vigil where reportedly 200 people gathered in the Russian city of Samara, which is where some of the mobilised soldiers who were killed were from. Mourners were seen laying flowers at a monument in the city, an Orthodox priest recited a prayer for the dead, and soldiers fired a gun salute, to commemorate the victims.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, in what might be the biggest attack on Moscow by Kyiv, since it began on February 24, 2021, the Kremlin in a rare announcement admitted that at least 89 of its military personnel were killed during a rocket strike by the latter. The first announcement was made on Monday, by the Russian defence ministry where it acknowledged that at least 63 of its soldiers were killed in Makiivka, a small Ukrainian city in the eastern Donetsk region which has been occupied by Moscow since 2014. What happened? The strike in question, took place on New Year’s Day, Sunday, at a vocational school which was reportedly housing Russian troops at the time. According to the Russian-installed Donetsk official, Daniil Bezsonov, the attack took place the first minute after midnight. Subsequently, both Russian and Ukrainian sources began reporting on the attack. ALSO READ | Kyiv takes responsibility for Makiivka strikes which killed 63 Russian troops The senior Russian military official, Lt General Sergei Sevryukov, confirmed that Ukraine hit a temporary base in Makiivka right after midnight on January 1, using the United States-supplied HIMARS rocket system. According to a statement by Moscow’s defence ministry, four rockets from the HIMARS launchers hit the building and “from the detonation of the warheads of the HIMARS rockets, the ceilings of the building collapsed.” The questionable claims about the death toll The Ukrainian army’s strategic communications department, on Sunday, said that it killed 400 mobilised Russian soldiers when it hit the school building and 300 others were injured. However, this figure had not been independently verified and later general staff of Kyiv’s armed forces said that “up to 10 units of enemy military equipment” had been destroyed, while the death toll remained unclear. ALSO READ | Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89 Notably, officials in Kyiv almost never publicly claim responsibility for attacks on Russian-occupied territory. In a statement, on Wednesday, Russia’s defence ministry said 89 of its servicemen were killed in the attack on Makiivka after more bodies were discovered. They also went on to blame the unauthorised use of mobile phones by the troops, however, no evidence has been provided for this claim. “It is already obvious that the main reason for what happened was the switching on and massive use - contrary to the prohibition - by personnel of mobile phones in a reach zone of enemy weapons,” said the defence ministry, as per Reuters. It added, “This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike.” ALSO WATCH | 89 killed in Ukrainian missile strikes, says Russia This is the biggest loss of life in a single attack that Russia has admitted to since the beginning of its war with Ukraine. Additionally, it was also the first information out of Russia about the death toll since last September when the defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, had said that nearly 6,000 Russian troops had been killed during the conflict up until that time. Russian military faces backlash Igor Girkin, the former separatist commander turned one of the highest-profile Russian nationalist military bloggers, questioned the death toll released by the military and said at least “hundreds” had been killed or wounded, according to a report by Reuters. He also attributed the death toll, which he suspects is higher, to the uncamouflaged military equipment stored at the site as well as Russia’s “untrainable” generals for the losses. Notably, the Russian defence minister also indicated that an investigation into the attack is underway and said that the officials responsible would be brought to justice “all the necessary measures are currently being adopted to prevent this kind of tragic incident in the future”, reported BBC. ALSO READ | Russia using its New Year's assault to 'kill as many civilians as possible', claim Ukrainian officials Additionally, Russian lawmaker, Sergei Mironov, also demanded that the officials who “allowed the concentration of military personnel in an unprotected building” and “all the higher authorities who did not provide the proper level of security”, be held liable for their missteps. A US-based Institute for the Study of War in their analysis also noted that this attack has garnered “significant criticism of Russian military leadership in the Russian information space.” It added that there is a chance that Moscow’s air and missile campaign against Ukraine is not generating “information effects among Russia's nationalists,” or at least as well as the Kremlin had hoped. Therefore, such failure hinders his efforts of retaining the dominant narrative in the domestic information space and could complicate matters for Russian President Vladimir Putin trying to appease the pro-war community in Moscow, said the US-based institute. ALSO READ | Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them Furthermore, they speculate that Russia’s defence ministry would attempt to “deflect the blame” for their “poor operational security” on local officials and mobilised personnel. Regardless, the sentiment of discontent after the attack is evident, with several people including war correspondents and people close to the separatists having taken to media platforms since and criticised the Russian military leadership. It can also be noted in a rare public vigil where reportedly 200 people gathered in the Russian city of Samara, which is where some of the mobilised soldiers who were killed were from. Mourners were seen laying flowers at a monument in the city, an Orthodox priest recited a prayer for the dead, and soldiers fired a gun salute, to commemorate the victims. (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.

Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began

An auto garage in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv has emerged as a surprise source of battlefield resources for the resistance forces during the ongoing conflict with Russia. The shop, which mainly specialised in repairs before the Russian invasion of Ukraine started in 2022, is transforming old cars, trucks and busses into military vehicles which are capable of transporting drones and weapons.

"We are not a wealthy country, and the state cannot provide all our soldiers with armoured four-wheel vehicles, so pickups are a compromise," an Ukrainian volunteer called Anton Senenko told AFP.

"Very often, there are breakdowns with cars in peacetime. But in wartime, such a breakdown can lead to a tragedy," he said when asked about the reason behind his initiative.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-all-for-coordinated-approach-for-ever-changing-covid-scenario-549304">EU nations reach consensus on Covid rules for Chinese travellers</a>

"The car won't start, and that's it -- the soldiers can no longer escape from the enemy tank."

The vehicles being used by the garage are mainly donated or fundraised by the Ukrainian volunteers involved in the initiative. According to AFP, there were also a number of cars and other vehicles which were imported from other countries including Estonia, Poland and Latvia.

"We don't just change lubricants and filters, we fully prepare the entire machine for the harsh conditions in which it will work on the front line," Senenko said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-new-years-attack-russia-blames-mobile-phones-for-missile-strike-in-makiivka-that-killed-89-549226">Russia blames illegal phone use for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89</a>

Due to the specialisation needed to make the vehicles battle-ready, the garage has included special instructors in the effort and the mechanics were even taught how to mount a Starlink internet dish.

"This is our contribution to the victory," garage owner Ruslan Kulagin told AFP.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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An auto garage in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv has emerged as a surprise source of battlefield resources for the resistance forces during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

An auto garage in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv has emerged as a surprise source of battlefield resources for the resistance forces during the ongoing conflict with Russia. The shop, which mainly specialised in repairs before the Russian invasion of Ukraine started in 2022, is transforming old cars, trucks and busses into military vehicles which are capable of transporting drones and weapons. "We are not a wealthy country, and the state cannot provide all our soldiers with armoured four-wheel vehicles, so pickups are a compromise," an Ukrainian volunteer called Anton Senenko told AFP. "Very often, there are breakdowns with cars in peacetime. But in wartime, such a breakdown can lead to a tragedy," he said when asked about the reason behind his initiative. Also read | EU nations reach consensus on Covid rules for Chinese travellers "The car won't start, and that's it -- the soldiers can no longer escape from the enemy tank." The vehicles being used by the garage are mainly donated or fundraised by the Ukrainian volunteers involved in the initiative. According to AFP, there were also a number of cars and other vehicles which were imported from other countries including Estonia, Poland and Latvia. "We don't just change lubricants and filters, we fully prepare the entire machine for the harsh conditions in which it will work on the front line," Senenko said. Also read | Russia blames illegal phone use for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89 Due to the specialisation needed to make the vehicles battle-ready, the garage has included special instructors in the effort and the mechanics were even taught how to mount a Starlink internet dish. "This is our contribution to the victory," garage owner Ruslan Kulagin told AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Garage in Kyiv turns into unlikely source of battle resources for Ukrainian army

Russia's defence ministry has acknowledged that 89 servicemen died in a Ukrainian strike on Makiivka in Eastern Ukraine on New Year's Eve, and blamed the attack on unauthorised use of mobile phones by its forces.

Russia says 89 killed in Ukrainian missile attack, blames cellphone for strike

Moscow previously said 63 Russian soldiers died in the weekend Ukrainian strike. It has now raised the reported death toll significantly to 89. Watch this video to find out what led to the death of 89 Russian servicemen.

Did illegal use of cellphones by Russian soldiers led to Ukrainian missile strike?

Kyiv has taken responsibility for a deadly strike on Russian forces in eastern Ukraine. This comes after Moscow in a rare admission claimed that it had lost 63 troops in the town of Makiivka.

War in Ukraine | Russian Defence Ministry: Ukrainian strike killed 63 soldieres

Russia’s defence ministry said 63 soldiers had died on New Year’s Eve in the fiery blast which destroyed a temporary barracks in a former vocational college in Makiivka, twin city of the Russian-occupied regional capital of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine.

Russia says 63 servicemen killed in Makiivka, Ukraine takes responsibility

Russia said on Monday (January 2) that 63 Russian soldiers had been killed in a Ukrainian New Year's Eve attack on their quarters, triggering furious criticism of the military leadership from lawmakers and Kremlin-loyal conflict bloggers.

Watch: Aftermath of shelling in Makiivka in which dozens of Russian recruits killed

The European Union and Ukraine will discuss financial and military assistance during a summit on February 3, 2023, in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office informed in a statement on Monday.&nbsp;

Zelensky's first order of business in 2023 was an agenda discussion with the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, the statement read. "The parties discussed expected results of the next Ukraine-EU summit to be held on February 3 in Kyiv and agreed to intensify preparatory work."

As both the leaders exchanged words over a call, they discussed a fresh $19 billion financial aid for Ukraine. However, Zelensky asserted an early transaction of the first chunk of the assistance. Another matter was the supply of 'appropriate' weapons for the war-struck nation.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-strike-on-russian-held-makiivka-results-in-death-of-63-soldiers-548811">Kyiv takes responsibility for Makiivka strikes which killed 63 Russian troops</a>

In December 2022, the European Union provided Ukraine with a 'megadeal.' The aid included a 15 per cent global corporate tax rate adoption for Ukraine, the second-largest European country.

Later, Zelensky appealed for the absence of hindrances in Kyiv's support due to the conflict between the 27-nation bloc.

Watch|&nbsp;Gravitas: IMF: Global economy faces a tougher year

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When the EU decided to hold the summit, they could not finalise the place earlier in December. However, a spokesperson for the chairman of EU leaders confirmed the date and openly invited President Zelensky to visit Brussels. Later, he confirmed that the invitation does not imply that the summit's venue would be in Brussels.&nbsp;

EU revealed that the summit's objective is to discuss the further expansion of help it can provide to Ukraine in its war against Russia. The Commission and the council of the 27 EU leaders, considered the two foundation pillars of the EU, will also discuss Ukraine's approach to membership in the coalition.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the war in February 2022, Zelensky has made continuous virtual appearances at EU summits. However, he made his first in-person visit after the onset of the war in Washington on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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The European Union and Ukraine will discuss financial and military assistance during a summit on February 3, 2023, in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office informed in a statement on Monday.

The European Union and Ukraine will discuss financial and military assistance during a summit on February 3, 2023, in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office informed in a statement on Monday. Zelensky's first order of business in 2023 was an agenda discussion with the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, the statement read. "The parties discussed expected results of the next Ukraine-EU summit to be held on February 3 in Kyiv and agreed to intensify preparatory work." As both the leaders exchanged words over a call, they discussed a fresh $19 billion financial aid for Ukraine. However, Zelensky asserted an early transaction of the first chunk of the assistance. Another matter was the supply of 'appropriate' weapons for the war-struck nation. Also Read| Kyiv takes responsibility for Makiivka strikes which killed 63 Russian troops In December 2022, the European Union provided Ukraine with a 'megadeal.' The aid included a 15 per cent global corporate tax rate adoption for Ukraine, the second-largest European country. Later, Zelensky appealed for the absence of hindrances in Kyiv's support due to the conflict between the 27-nation bloc. Watch| Gravitas: IMF: Global economy faces a tougher year When the EU decided to hold the summit, they could not finalise the place earlier in December. However, a spokesperson for the chairman of EU leaders confirmed the date and openly invited President Zelensky to visit Brussels. Later, he confirmed that the invitation does not imply that the summit's venue would be in Brussels. EU revealed that the summit's objective is to discuss the further expansion of help it can provide to Ukraine in its war against Russia. The Commission and the council of the 27 EU leaders, considered the two foundation pillars of the EU, will also discuss Ukraine's approach to membership in the coalition. Since the beginning of the war in February 2022, Zelensky has made continuous virtual appearances at EU summits. However, he made his first in-person visit after the onset of the war in Washington on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

EU, Ukraine to hold summit on February 3 in Kyiv

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.

Kyiv on Monday took responsibility for a deadly strike on Russian forces in eastern Ukraine, after Moscow said it had lost 63 troops in the town of Makiivka.

At least 63 Russian soldiers were killed as Ukrainian resistance forces attacked a complex in the city of Makiivka, the Russian defence ministry said on Monday. It was hailed as the deadliest known incident involving Russian troops in Ukraine as Kremlin continued to send more forces in the conflict.

"As a result of a strike by four missiles with a high-explosive warhead on a temporary deployment point, 63 Russian servicemen were killed," the defence ministry said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-incursions-into-taiwan-air-defence-zone-almost-doubled-in-2022-548723">China’s incursions into Taiwan air defence zone almost doubled in 2022</a>

On the other hand, the Ukrainian military said that more than 400 soldiers were killed in the attack and it also took&nbsp;responsibility for the incident that took part in the eastern region of Donetsk.

"On December 31, up to 10 units of enemy military equipment of various types were destroyed and damaged" in the town of Makiivka in the eastern region of Donetsk, the General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces said in a statement.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry also said that Ukraine used HIMARS system to conduct the strikes."All the necessary assistance and support will be provided to the relatives and loved ones of the deceased servicemen," the defence ministry said according to Reuters.

Daniil Bezsonov, a senior Moscow proxy official in the Russian-occupied Donetsk region, said that one of the missiles struck a vocational school that was acting as the refuge for some soldiers.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian drones attack critical infrastructure in and around Kyiv

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“A massive blow was dealt to the vocational school from American MLRS Himars,” Bezsonov wrote in a post on Telegram. “There were dead and wounded; the exact number is still unknown.”

There were a number of pictures of the strikes on social media but none of them were verified by media houses. Even the Russian authorities were accused of downplaying the numbers.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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. Kyiv on Monday took responsibility for a deadly strike on Russian forces in eastern Ukraine, after Moscow said it had lost 63 troops in the town of Makiivka. At least 63 Russian soldiers were killed as Ukrainian resistance forces attacked a complex in the city of Makiivka, the Russian defence ministry said on Monday. It was hailed as the deadliest known incident involving Russian troops in Ukraine as Kremlin continued to send more forces in the conflict. "As a result of a strike by four missiles with a high-explosive warhead on a temporary deployment point, 63 Russian servicemen were killed," the defence ministry said in a statement. Also read | China’s incursions into Taiwan air defence zone almost doubled in 2022 On the other hand, the Ukrainian military said that more than 400 soldiers were killed in the attack and it also took responsibility for the incident that took part in the eastern region of Donetsk. "On December 31, up to 10 units of enemy military equipment of various types were destroyed and damaged" in the town of Makiivka in the eastern region of Donetsk, the General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces said in a statement. The Russian defence ministry also said that Ukraine used HIMARS system to conduct the strikes."All the necessary assistance and support will be provided to the relatives and loved ones of the deceased servicemen," the defence ministry said according to Reuters. Daniil Bezsonov, a senior Moscow proxy official in the Russian-occupied Donetsk region, said that one of the missiles struck a vocational school that was acting as the refuge for some soldiers. WATCH | Russian drones attack critical infrastructure in and around Kyiv “A massive blow was dealt to the vocational school from American MLRS Himars,” Bezsonov wrote in a post on Telegram. “There were dead and wounded; the exact number is still unknown.” There were a number of pictures of the strikes on social media but none of them were verified by media houses. Even the Russian authorities were accused of downplaying the numbers.

Kyiv takes responsibility for Makiivka strikes which killed 63 Russian troops

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; 
 
After launching a barrage of missiles on Saturday accompanied by air raid sirens howling for hours overnight, Russia persistently attacked Kyiv and nearby towns on the early morning of New Year's Day.&nbsp;

In the last 24 hours, Russia's 45 Iranian-made Shahed drones were destroyed, claimed Ukraine's Air Force command as per a&nbsp;Reuters report. While 32 drones were&nbsp;wrecked on Saturday, 13 more were shot down on Sunday morning, it added.&nbsp;

Russia's President Vladimir Putin marked New Year's as the beginning of the 11th month of the war with no hint of termination. However, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky observed the New Year with a message of gratitude and unity.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-russia-is-planning-another-wave-of-mobilisation-and-will-close-borders-for-men-report-548399">Ukraine claims Russia is planning another wave of mobilisation and will close borders for men: Report</a>

Public celebrations of 2023 seemed impossible as a countrywide curfew is imposed. Missiles have caused damage in Kyiv's central areas, but the city's&nbsp;mayor Vitali Klitschko said there were zero casualties or injuries.&nbsp;

Chief of Kyiv Police, Andrii Nebytov, posted an image on his Telegram account, allegedly of a drone's fragment, which had 'Happy New Year' written over it in Russian. "These wreckage are not at the front, on fierce battles. They are here, on a sports grounds, where children play," Nebytov said.&nbsp;

Watch|&nbsp;Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's Day; explosion hits capital Kyiv

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Ukraine's authorities have mentioned several infrastructural damages. Reports have mentioned that Ukraine retaliated with multiple attacks in Moscow-controlled parts of Donetsk and Luhansk. Local officials said that the attacks wounded at least nine people.&nbsp;

Putin launched an offensive against Ukraine on February 24, 2022, referring to it as a 'special military operation.' However, Ukraine and its western allies believe the incursion was an imperialist land grab. Due to this, high tensions have prevailed between Russia and and the West.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. After launching a barrage of missiles on Saturday accompanied by air raid sirens howling for hours overnight, Russia persistently attacked Kyiv and nearby towns on the early morning of New Year's Day. In the last 24 hours, Russia's 45 Iranian-made Shahed drones were destroyed, claimed Ukraine's Air Force command as per a Reuters report. While 32 drones were wrecked on Saturday, 13 more were shot down on Sunday morning, it added. Russia's President Vladimir Putin marked New Year's as the beginning of the 11th month of the war with no hint of termination. However, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky observed the New Year with a message of gratitude and unity. Also Read| Ukraine claims Russia is planning another wave of mobilisation and will close borders for men: Report Public celebrations of 2023 seemed impossible as a countrywide curfew is imposed. Missiles have caused damage in Kyiv's central areas, but the city's mayor Vitali Klitschko said there were zero casualties or injuries. Chief of Kyiv Police, Andrii Nebytov, posted an image on his Telegram account, allegedly of a drone's fragment, which had 'Happy New Year' written over it in Russian. "These wreckage are not at the front, on fierce battles. They are here, on a sports grounds, where children play," Nebytov said. Watch| Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's Day; explosion hits capital Kyiv Ukraine's authorities have mentioned several infrastructural damages. Reports have mentioned that Ukraine retaliated with multiple attacks in Moscow-controlled parts of Donetsk and Luhansk. Local officials said that the attacks wounded at least nine people. Putin launched an offensive against Ukraine on February 24, 2022, referring to it as a 'special military operation.' However, Ukraine and its western allies believe the incursion was an imperialist land grab. Due to this, high tensions have prevailed between Russia and and the West. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine’s New Year commences with Russian missile, drone attacks and air raid sirens

In a New Year’s Eve address, the Ukrainian president called for all of his country’s lands, including Crimea, to be returned in 2023.

Zelensky vows Ukraine will fight until victory is achieved in New Year's speeches

The first day of 2023 was not any different than the last 11 months for Ukraine. The country woke up to air raid sirens and a series of drones attacks.

War in Ukraine: 30 minutes after Zelensky's speech, Russia launches drone attacks

As Moscow rang in the new year by hitting civilian targets all throughout Ukraine, Ukrainians rejoiced from their balconies as their air defences shot Russian missiles and drones out of the sky. The headquarters of the Ukrainian Air Force reported that it had destroyed 45 Shahed drones overnight, including 13 late on Saturday and 32 after midnight on Sunday. On top of that, there had already been 12 airstrikes and 31 missile attacks on the previous day around the nation.

War in Ukraine: Ukrainians chant 'glory to Ukraine-glory to heroes' on New Year

As the world is celebrating the New Years with fireworks, Russia has targeted the Ukrainian Capital Kyiv along with several other regions in the country. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia has launched dozens of missiles towards cities.

Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day; explosion hits capital Kyiv

As the world celebrated the New Years with fireworks, Russia targeted the Ukrainian Capital Kyiv along with several other regions in the country. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia launched dozens of missiles towards cities.

War in Ukraine: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day, Kyiv residents shout 'glory to Ukraine'

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian defence ministry on Sunday claimed that the attacks launched by them on New Year were aimed at the drone production of Ukraine, stating that it has managed to destroy “terror attacks” of Kyiv against Russia.&nbsp;In the assault carried out on New Year's Eve, Moscow launched Iranian-made drones and missiles on Kyiv along with other Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;

Due to the strikes carried out on the New Year, three people lost their lives and 50 others were injured in war-torn Ukraine, claimed authorities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-slammed-the-west-for-trying-to-tear-apart-russia-546534">Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia</a>

The defence ministry stated that a strike hit "the facilities of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine" which has involvement in the production of drones.

In its statement, the ministry claimed they have also destroyed “storage facilities and launch sites" for the drones.

"The aim of the strike was achieved. The plans of the Kyiv regime to carry out terrorist attacks against Russia in the near future have been thwarted,” it added.&nbsp;

Deputy head of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, said that two people were killed in Kyiv and Kherson's southern region, while 50 others were injured in the strikes launched by Russia.&nbsp;

WATCH| Russia-Ukraine war: Who is winning in the air?

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Governor Sergiy Gamaliy on Sunday said that a 22-year-old woman succumbed to her wounds in Khmelnytskyi, the western city of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The attacks were launched as Russian President Vladimir Putin's war against Ukraine is in its 11th month. After suffering multiple humiliating military defeats, Russia started targeting the infrastructure of Ukraine in October, which left millions in the dark and cold.&nbsp;

Russia has claimed that its infrastructure and military sites have been targeted by Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

<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>

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian defence ministry on Sunday claimed that the attacks launched by them on New Year were aimed at the drone production of Ukraine, stating that it has managed to destroy “terror attacks” of Kyiv against Russia. In the assault carried out on New Year's Eve, Moscow launched Iranian-made drones and missiles on Kyiv along with other Ukrainian cities. Due to the strikes carried out on the New Year, three people lost their lives and 50 others were injured in war-torn Ukraine, claimed authorities. ALSO READ| Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia The defence ministry stated that a strike hit "the facilities of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine" which has involvement in the production of drones. In its statement, the ministry claimed they have also destroyed “storage facilities and launch sites" for the drones. "The aim of the strike was achieved. The plans of the Kyiv regime to carry out terrorist attacks against Russia in the near future have been thwarted,” it added. Deputy head of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's office, Kyrylo Tymoshenko, said that two people were killed in Kyiv and Kherson's southern region, while 50 others were injured in the strikes launched by Russia. WATCH| Russia-Ukraine war: Who is winning in the air? Governor Sergiy Gamaliy on Sunday said that a 22-year-old woman succumbed to her wounds in Khmelnytskyi, the western city of Ukraine. The attacks were launched as Russian President Vladimir Putin's war against Ukraine is in its 11th month. After suffering multiple humiliating military defeats, Russia started targeting the infrastructure of Ukraine in October, which left millions in the dark and cold. Russia has claimed that its infrastructure and military sites have been targeted by Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Attacks launched on New Year were targetted at drone production facilities in Ukraine: Russia

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; 
 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his nightly address, on Saturday, New Year’s eve speaking to the Russian people said that their President Vladimir Putin is&nbsp;waging a war against Kyiv to ensure he stays in power “until the end of his life” and is destroying their country.&nbsp;

This comes after Russia unleashed a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, on December 31,&nbsp; as a result of&nbsp;which at least one person was killed while&nbsp;dozens were injured, said officials. In&nbsp;the address, Zelensky switched to speaking Russian, seemingly directing his message to the Russian people and Kremlin following the attacks.&nbsp;

“All this war that you are waging, you – Russia, it is not the war with NATO, as your propagandists lie…It is not for something historical. It’s for one person to remain in power until the end of his life. And what will be with all of you, citizens of Russia, does not concern him,”&nbsp;said Zelensky.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-his-new-year-message-russias-defence-chief-says-victory-is-inevitable-548320">In his New Year message, Russia's defence chief says 'victory is inevitable'</a>

The Ukrainian president’s address followed Putin’s New Year address in which he was seen surrounded by people in military uniforms, referring to which Zelensky said, “Russian leader is hiding behind the troops, behind missiles, behind the walls of his residences and palaces.”&nbsp;

He added that the Russian president “hides behind you and burns your country and your future. No one will ever forgive you for terror. No one in the world will forgive you for that. Ukraine will not forgive.”

According to Ukrainian officials, missile strikes were also launched by Moscow, on Sunday, on Kyiv, hours into the New Year, but no immediate casualties were reported. Meanwhile, the head of the country’s armed forces, Valerii Zaluzhny, said air defences managed to shoot down at least 12 of the 20 Russian cruise missiles fired, on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-under-attack-blasts-in-early-hours-of-new-years-day-explosion-hits-capital-kyiv-548409">Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day; explosion hits capital Kyiv</a>

Additionally, the Ukrainian president also said that “most” of the Russian missiles were intercepted and that if it was not for the air defence the death toll would be “much bigger” and even called the attack inhumane.&nbsp;

Speaking to the Ukrainian people, Zelensky thanked them for their efforts to repel Russian attacks, “We fight as one team - the whole country, all our regions. I admire you all. I want to thank every invincible region of Ukraine.”

While public celebrations to mark the New Year&nbsp;seemed impossible due to the countrywide curfews and attack on New Year’s Eve when sirens wailed across Ukraine,&nbsp;people gathered near the Ukrainian capital Kyiv's central Christmas tree as midnight approached, said media reports. Some residents even sang the national anthem while officials accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians gathered for the New Year celebrations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-new-year-commences-with-russian-attacks-and-air-raid-sirens-548471">Ukraine's New Year commences with Russian attacks and air raid sirens</a>

On the other hand, Putin speaking to the Russian people in his new year address said that the conflict in Ukraine is about, “defending our people and our historical lands” and “moral, historical rightness is on our side”.&nbsp;

He added, “The West lied about peace. It was preparing for aggression... and now they are cynically using Ukraine and its people to weaken and split Russia.” This comes after the Russian president accused the West of “provoking” Moscow to launch a “special military operation”, as the Kremlin calls it, in Ukraine which began in February 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his nightly address, on Saturday, New Year’s eve speaking to the Russian people said that their President Vladimir Putin is waging a war against Kyiv to ensure he stays in power “until the end of his life” and is destroying their country. This comes after Russia unleashed a barrage of missiles over Ukraine, on December 31, as a result of which at least one person was killed while dozens were injured, said officials. In the address, Zelensky switched to speaking Russian, seemingly directing his message to the Russian people and Kremlin following the attacks. “All this war that you are waging, you – Russia, it is not the war with NATO, as your propagandists lie…It is not for something historical. It’s for one person to remain in power until the end of his life. And what will be with all of you, citizens of Russia, does not concern him,” said Zelensky. ALSO READ | In his New Year message, Russia's defence chief says 'victory is inevitable' The Ukrainian president’s address followed Putin’s New Year address in which he was seen surrounded by people in military uniforms, referring to which Zelensky said, “Russian leader is hiding behind the troops, behind missiles, behind the walls of his residences and palaces.” He added that the Russian president “hides behind you and burns your country and your future. No one will ever forgive you for terror. No one in the world will forgive you for that. Ukraine will not forgive.” According to Ukrainian officials, missile strikes were also launched by Moscow, on Sunday, on Kyiv, hours into the New Year, but no immediate casualties were reported. Meanwhile, the head of the country’s armed forces, Valerii Zaluzhny, said air defences managed to shoot down at least 12 of the 20 Russian cruise missiles fired, on Saturday. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine under attack: Blasts in early hours of New Year's day; explosion hits capital Kyiv Additionally, the Ukrainian president also said that “most” of the Russian missiles were intercepted and that if it was not for the air defence the death toll would be “much bigger” and even called the attack inhumane. Speaking to the Ukrainian people, Zelensky thanked them for their efforts to repel Russian attacks, “We fight as one team - the whole country, all our regions. I admire you all. I want to thank every invincible region of Ukraine.” While public celebrations to mark the New Year seemed impossible due to the countrywide curfews and attack on New Year’s Eve when sirens wailed across Ukraine, people gathered near the Ukrainian capital Kyiv's central Christmas tree as midnight approached, said media reports. Some residents even sang the national anthem while officials accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians gathered for the New Year celebrations. ALSO READ | Ukraine's New Year commences with Russian attacks and air raid sirens On the other hand, Putin speaking to the Russian people in his new year address said that the conflict in Ukraine is about, “defending our people and our historical lands” and “moral, historical rightness is on our side”. He added, “The West lied about peace. It was preparing for aggression... and now they are cynically using Ukraine and its people to weaken and split Russia.” This comes after the Russian president accused the West of “provoking” Moscow to launch a “special military operation”, as the Kremlin calls it, in Ukraine which began in February 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zelensky tells Russian people Putin waging war just to stay in power and is destroying them

The world bids adieu to 2022. A year marked by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, the people around the world are welcoming or set to welcome 2023.

The World bids adieu to 2022; amid Covid restrictions, war, world rings in 2023

War in Ukraine: Explosions shake Ukrainian capital city after missile warning

In his New Year's address, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said that "moral, historical rightness" is on the side of Russia amid international condemnation pouring against his government for escalating the Ukraine war.&nbsp;"Today we are fighting for this, protecting our people in our own historical territories, in the new constituent entities of the Russian Federation," Putin said in his address telecast&nbsp;on Russian state TV while speaking about the regions of Ukraine that Russia claims to have captured.&nbsp;

He added that his country would never capitulate to the attempts made by the West of using Ukraine as a medium for destroying Russia. He called the war with Ukraine a fight for protecting its "motherland" and winning its people's "true independence".

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-at-least-one-dead-as-multiple-blasts-rock-kyiv-548357">Russia-Ukraine war: At least one dead as multiple blasts rock Kyiv</a>

In the nine-minute address, Putin said that the West has been lying and provoking Moscow for initiating a "special military operation" in Ukraine.

"For years, Western elites hypocritically assured us of their peaceful intentions," he stated in his speech recorded in front of Russian service personnel at Russia's southern military district's headquarters.

"In fact, in every possible way they were encouraging neo-Nazis who conducted open terrorism against civilians in the Donbas," said Putin.

"The West lied about peace. It was preparing for aggression ... and now they are cynically using Ukraine and its people to weaken and split Russia,” he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-China Ties: Russia's Putin invites China's Xi Jinping for a state visit?

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"We have never allowed this, and will never allow anybody to do this to us," Putin said.

The claims made by Moscow over the conflict's start have been rejected by Kyiv and the West, who claim that a baseless war has been initiated by Putin to seize Ukraine's territory and remove Ukrainian President&nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In his New Year's address, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said that "moral, historical rightness" is on the side of Russia amid international condemnation pouring against his government for escalating the Ukraine war.

In his New Year's address, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said that "moral, historical rightness" is on the side of Russia amid international condemnation pouring against his government for escalating the Ukraine war. "Today we are fighting for this, protecting our people in our own historical territories, in the new constituent entities of the Russian Federation," Putin said in his address telecast on Russian state TV while speaking about the regions of Ukraine that Russia claims to have captured. He added that his country would never capitulate to the attempts made by the West of using Ukraine as a medium for destroying Russia. He called the war with Ukraine a fight for protecting its "motherland" and winning its people's "true independence". ALSO READ| Russia-Ukraine war: At least one dead as multiple blasts rock Kyiv In the nine-minute address, Putin said that the West has been lying and provoking Moscow for initiating a "special military operation" in Ukraine. "For years, Western elites hypocritically assured us of their peaceful intentions," he stated in his speech recorded in front of Russian service personnel at Russia's southern military district's headquarters. "In fact, in every possible way they were encouraging neo-Nazis who conducted open terrorism against civilians in the Donbas," said Putin. "The West lied about peace. It was preparing for aggression ... and now they are cynically using Ukraine and its people to weaken and split Russia,” he added. WATCH | Russia-China Ties: Russia's Putin invites China's Xi Jinping for a state visit? "We have never allowed this, and will never allow anybody to do this to us," Putin said. The claims made by Moscow over the conflict's start have been rejected by Kyiv and the West, who claim that a baseless war has been initiated by Putin to seize Ukraine's territory and remove Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin claims 'moral, historical rightness' on Russia's side amid escalating war with Ukraine

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in his New Year's message on Saturday, said that Russia's victory over Ukraine was "inevitable" as he praised the heroism of soldiers fighting for Russia.&nbsp;

The defence chief said that situation on the frontlines is still “difficult” and criticised the West along with Ukraine for making efforts to contain Russia.

"Dear comrades-in-arms, friends. In the outgoing year, we all faced serious trials that changed the usual course of time, we meet it in a difficult military-political situation, when those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, they demolish monuments to the victors of fascism and put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-carries-out-biggest-aerial-assault-in-ukraine-since-february-kyiv-says-repelled-overnight-drone-strike-548007">Russia carries out biggest aerial assault in Ukraine since Feb; Kyiv says it repelled overnight drone strike</a>

"The outgoing year will forever enter the military chronicle of the fatherland, filled with your immortal deeds, selfless courage and heroism in the fight against neo-nazism and terrorism. We meet the New Year in a difficult military-political situation," the defence chief added.&nbsp;

"At a time when there are those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, demolish monuments to the victors over fascism, put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” Shoigu said.&nbsp;

He praised Russian troops' "immortal actions, selfless courage and heroism" in fighting against what he termed as "neo-Nazism and terrorism."

WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Home over safety; story of two farmers who refused to leave home

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"In the coming year, I want to wish everyone good health, fortitude, reliable and devoted comrades and, of course, clear skies. Our victory, like the New Year, is inevitable,” he said.

Ukraine and its Western allies have rejected the assertion of Russia that it is waging a war against "Nazis" in Ukraine, calling it a baseless excuse by President Vladimir Putin for annexing the territory.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in his New Year's message on Saturday, said that Russia's victory over Ukraine was "inevitable" as he praised the heroism of soldiers fighting for Russia.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, in his New Year's message on Saturday, said that Russia's victory over Ukraine was "inevitable" as he praised the heroism of soldiers fighting for Russia. The defence chief said that situation on the frontlines is still “difficult” and criticised the West along with Ukraine for making efforts to contain Russia. "Dear comrades-in-arms, friends. In the outgoing year, we all faced serious trials that changed the usual course of time, we meet it in a difficult military-political situation, when those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, they demolish monuments to the victors of fascism and put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” he said. ALSO READ| Russia carries out biggest aerial assault in Ukraine since Feb; Kyiv says it repelled overnight drone strike "The outgoing year will forever enter the military chronicle of the fatherland, filled with your immortal deeds, selfless courage and heroism in the fight against neo-nazism and terrorism. We meet the New Year in a difficult military-political situation," the defence chief added. "At a time when there are those who are trying to erase our glorious history and great achievements, demolish monuments to the victors over fascism, put war criminals on a pedestal, cancel and desecrate everything Russian,” Shoigu said. He praised Russian troops' "immortal actions, selfless courage and heroism" in fighting against what he termed as "neo-Nazism and terrorism." WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: Home over safety; story of two farmers who refused to leave home "In the coming year, I want to wish everyone good health, fortitude, reliable and devoted comrades and, of course, clear skies. Our victory, like the New Year, is inevitable,” he said. Ukraine and its Western allies have rejected the assertion of Russia that it is waging a war against "Nazis" in Ukraine, calling it a baseless excuse by President Vladimir Putin for annexing the territory. (With inputs from agencies)

In his New Year message, Russia's defence chief says 'victory is inevitable'

Here's a story of resilience and love for home in Ukraine. While most people have left home Yampil, which is a front-line village in Eastern Ukraine. Watch the video to know the stories of people belonging there.

Russia-Ukraine War: Home over safety; story of two farmers who refused to leave home

As the Christmas festivities come to an end, Russia is all set to mark a new Calendar year. However, people in Moscow have confessed to not feeling upbeat despite the bustling streets and ice statues at Gorky Park.&nbsp;

Due to President Vladimir Putin's 'special military operations' in Ukraine, people in Moscow have also felt the absence of less expensive Western goods in the market while shopping. Letters adopted by the Russian military, Z, V and O, dazzled at the entrance of the famous park named after Maxim Gorky, reported Reuters.

New Year's is the most crucial holiday season in Russia. However, Russian Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-40-per-cent-of-kyiv-population-left-without-power-after-russian-strikes-547670">Russia’s barrage of missiles leaves 40 per cent of Kyiv population without power</a>

New Year fir tree rates have surged due to the high delivery rates and shortage in stock, according to the market's owner, Vladislav Pukharev. He also mentioned that even though people still buy natural trees, they have switched to shorter ones.

However, there has been an annual increase in the sale of jewellery, informed Evgeniya, a jewellery maker from Russia's capital city.&nbsp;

On her evening walk to Gorky Park, Maria, a resident, said that the 10-month-old war between Russia and Ukraine has directly influenced her festive spirit. "It is difficult to be cheerful when you understand that people out there are going through such awful times," she told Reuters.

Watch|&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia steps up offensive In Kherson, Kyiv

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Another resident, Ivan, had a different opinion on celebrating holidays amid a war. He said, "A holiday remains a holiday. It (New Year) is still a holiday for children and grandparents. And it should remain so."

Matvey, a student, said he missed his friend, currently deployed in Crimea, the Ukrainian peninsula under Russia since 2014. While Natalia, a young woman, missed her favourite Portuguese wine and the variety of cheeses, her father interrupted her saying that 'there's a lot of Crimean wine.'

"Even though I'm not ready to celebrate it, as usual, it still needs to be celebrated. We need to give gifts etc. We need to fight this feeling of uncertainty," said Ekaterina, a researcher. Many people interviewed agree with her and will choose to celebrate New Year despite the 'complex feeling.'

People have also set up a pavilion for the donation of gifts and humanitarian aid to troops on Red Square in Moscow. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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As the Christmas festivities come to an end, Russia is all set to mark a new Calendar year. However, people in Moscow have confessed to not feeling upbeat despite the bustling streets and ice statues at Gorky Park.

As the Christmas festivities come to an end, Russia is all set to mark a new Calendar year. However, people in Moscow have confessed to not feeling upbeat despite the bustling streets and ice statues at Gorky Park. Due to President Vladimir Putin's 'special military operations' in Ukraine, people in Moscow have also felt the absence of less expensive Western goods in the market while shopping. Letters adopted by the Russian military, Z, V and O, dazzled at the entrance of the famous park named after Maxim Gorky, reported Reuters. New Year's is the most crucial holiday season in Russia. However, Russian Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7. Also read| Russia’s barrage of missiles leaves 40 per cent of Kyiv population without power New Year fir tree rates have surged due to the high delivery rates and shortage in stock, according to the market's owner, Vladislav Pukharev. He also mentioned that even though people still buy natural trees, they have switched to shorter ones. However, there has been an annual increase in the sale of jewellery, informed Evgeniya, a jewellery maker from Russia's capital city. On her evening walk to Gorky Park, Maria, a resident, said that the 10-month-old war between Russia and Ukraine has directly influenced her festive spirit. "It is difficult to be cheerful when you understand that people out there are going through such awful times," she told Reuters. Watch| Gravitas: Russia steps up offensive In Kherson, Kyiv Another resident, Ivan, had a different opinion on celebrating holidays amid a war. He said, "A holiday remains a holiday. It (New Year) is still a holiday for children and grandparents. And it should remain so." Matvey, a student, said he missed his friend, currently deployed in Crimea, the Ukrainian peninsula under Russia since 2014. While Natalia, a young woman, missed her favourite Portuguese wine and the variety of cheeses, her father interrupted her saying that 'there's a lot of Crimean wine.' "Even though I'm not ready to celebrate it, as usual, it still needs to be celebrated. We need to give gifts etc. We need to fight this feeling of uncertainty," said Ekaterina, a researcher. Many people interviewed agree with her and will choose to celebrate New Year despite the 'complex feeling.' People have also set up a pavilion for the donation of gifts and humanitarian aid to troops on Red Square in Moscow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russians to celebrate sombre New Year amid Ukraine crisis

Russia rejects Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky's 10-point peace plan saying Kyiv is not ready for peace talks. Meanwhile, Moscow steps up offensive in multiple Ukrainian cities. Is Vladimir Putin irked by Zelensky's Washington visit? We get you more.

Gravitas: Russia steps up offensive In Kherson, Kyiv

Less than 24 hours after Russia bombarded Ukraine with missiles, it launched a drone attack on the capital Kyiv. Ukraine reported that all 16 Iranian-made drones were destroyed.

War in Ukraine: Ukraine says Russia attacked capital with 16 Iranian-made drones

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