The cargo ship MKK 1, travelling from Ukraine to Turkey, was grounded in Istanbul's Bosphorus Strait on Monday (January 16) and traffic in the strait was suspended but no damage was reported, shipping agents Tribeca said.

A cargo ship from Ukraine grounded in Istanbul's Bosphorus strait

Large areas of eastern Ukraine were experiencing electricity cuts, Ukrainian officials said, across regions after attack by Russian troops. Watch further to know more.

War in Ukraine: Dnipro pummeled, hundreds without power | Russian strikes

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv’s western allies might have finally answered the country’s long standing call to supply modern battle tanks. On late Saturday (January 14), the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office said that Britain would be sending 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with some other artillery to support Ukraine. This comes after the UK PM and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephonic conversation during which Sunak confirmed that he would send tanks and additional weapons to Kyiv. Meanwhile, Germany for weeks has been considering sending tanks amid growing pressure from France and Poland.&nbsp;

UK to send 14 tanks and weapons to Ukraine

The announcement was made by UK PM Sunak’s office after the two leaders spoke, late Saturday, “As the people of Ukraine approach their second year living under relentless Russian bombardment, the Prime Minister is dedicated to ensuring Ukraine wins this war,” said the British prime minister’s office, in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-special-military-operation-in-ukraine-showing-positive-trend-552863">Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend</a>

In the upcoming weeks, the UK is planning to send a squadron of 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with 30 self-propelled AS90 guns which would be operated by five gunners. Furthermore, Britain will also train Ukrainian army personnel on how to use the tanks as well as the guns.&nbsp;

This comes after the British PM highlighted the country’s “ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine”, as per a readout of a phone call with Zelensky. According to Sunak’s office, he believes a “long and static war only serves Russia’s interests”. It added, “UK defence and security officials believe a window has opened up where Russia is on the backfoot due to resupply issues and plummeting morale.”

Additionally, the UK PM believes that the British Army’s main battle tank would help Ukrainian forces “push Russian troops back”. Notably, this move now makes Britain the first western country to supply Kyiv with heavy tanks which it has sought for some time now including US main battle tank M1 Abrams and German Leopard 2 tanks.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-indicates-uk-to-send-battle-tanks-artillery-to-ukraine-552655/amp">PM Rishi Sunak promises UK will supply battle tanks, artillery to Ukraine</a>

After the conversation and announcement, Zelensky took to Twitter and thanked the UK PM for his decision to send the tanks and said, “that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield but also send the right signal to other partners.” He also spoke about how UK’s support was “always strong" and was “now impenetrable”.&nbsp;

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Always strong support of the UK is now impenetrable and ready for challenges. In a conversation with the Prime Minister, <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishiSunak</a>, I thanked for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield, but also send the right signal to other partners.
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1614219544335114242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this week, Sunak’s office also spoke about coordinating efforts with allies Germany, France and the United States as they are among the countries who have also indicated that they would be willing to send armoured vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp;

How has Russia responded to the UK's announcement?&nbsp;

The announcement received a swift response from the Russian Embassy in London which said that sending tanks to Ukraine would be evidence of the “increasingly obvious involvement of London in the conflict” as well as “intensify” the conflict and lead to more casualties including civilians.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

According to the Russian news agency TASS, the embassy said, “As for the Challenger 2 tanks, they are unlikely to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine turn the tide on the battlefield, but they will become a legitimate large target for the Russian artillery.” Similarly, in response to the UK's decision to send Challenger tanks, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reiterated her response that “weapons supplies are legitimate targets for Russian strikes.”&nbsp;

What are Challenger 2 tanks?

According to the British Army, Challenger 2 is a battle tank designed to attack other tanks and has been in service since 1994. It was deployed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Iraq, reported Reuters. While they are over two decades old they will be the most modern tank at Ukraine's disposal amid the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-alleges-russia-cancelled-prisoner-exchange-at-the-last-minute-552731">Ukraine alleges Russia cancelled scheduled prisoner exchange at the last minute</a>

The Challenger 2 is a 64-tonne main battle tank, built by British Aerospace Systems in the 1990s and has a maximum speed ranging from 40 km/hour to 59 km/hour which can cover a distance of 250 km to 450 km. It can also carry a four-member crew with a commander, gunner, loader and driver and is armed with a 120mm rifled tank gun, Boeing 7.62mm chain gun, a 7.62 mm General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), and L37A2 anti-air machine gun, reported Al Jazeera.

Germany under pressure

Earlier this month, Berlin agreed to supply Ukraine with Marder infantry fighting vehicles as well as the Patriot air system. However, there has been mounting pressure on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to authorise the re-export of modern battle tanks to Kyiv. However, Scholz previously said that such a move would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the US.&nbsp;

Furthermore, reports suggest that the German Chancellor has been reluctant to send battle tanks as he does not want to act alone while some western leaders are being cautious about the aid and weapons they send to Ukraine as their response can be viewed as an escalation or provocation by Russia. So far, Kyiv’s allies like Poland and the Czech Republic have only been willing to send the country Soviet-era T-72 tanks.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-pushes-for-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-549802">Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks</a>

According to estimates by the European Council on Foreign Relations, there are nearly 2,000 Leopard tanks in Europe. “The Ukrainians really want the Leopards because there are lots in stock across Europe,” said a French official familiar with the discussions to Politico.&nbsp;

Germany’s support is seen as crucial being one of the biggest economies in the EU and also because while 13 European countries are reportedly in possession of Leopard 2 tanks including Poland, France, and Finland they need Berlin’s authorisation to re-export the procured tanks. Since the Leopards are being produced by Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann their delivery to Ukraine would require the authorisation of the country of origin which in this case is Germany.&nbsp;

However, on Thursday, Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, said that Berlin should not block any countries from re-exporting Leopard tanks. “Germany should not stand in the way of other countries taking decisions to support Ukraine, independent of which decisions Germany takes,” said Habeck, on the sidelines of the Greens party meeting in Berlin. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-we-know-about-ukraines-deadliest-attack-on-russia-since-the-conflict-began-549499">Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began</a>

Additionally, German deputy government spokeswoman, Christiane Hoffmann, addressing a press conference, said that Berlin has not received a formal request from either Poland or Finland but also said that sending the tanks without their approval would be “illegal”.&nbsp;

Germany is still in the midst of considering the right thing to do and how to best support Ukraine, Hoffmann added. Last week, the Berlin government spokesperson also stressed that one of the key goals for the country is to not become an active part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-hit-ukrainian-capital-more-attacks-expected-elsewhere-552596">Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 25 killed, 43 missing</a> 
 
A report by Bloomberg citing two officials familiar with the German government’s thinking said that they believe that Berlin will likely decide to supply the Leopards to Ukraine. The report, citing a German official familiar with the matter, also claims that the country will make a decision before an upcoming meeting between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and his German counterpart Christine Lambrecht at the American airbase in Ramstein scheduled for later this month.&nbsp;

What about other European nations?

The President of Poland, Andrzej Duda had earlier indicated that while they are ready to send Leopard tanks to Kyiv it would only be possible under a larger international coalition of tank aid to Ukraine. According to the German institute Kiel’s Ukraine Support Tracker, Poland has already sent at least 200 Soviet-style tanks, while countries like UK, France and Poland have also given a total of $12 billion as&nbsp;military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-did-nato-push-ukraine-into-war-459651">Gravitas Plus: Did NATO push Ukraine into war?</a>

Earlier this month, France said that it would send its AMX-10 RC armoured combat vehicles which are deemed “light tanks” in Paris to Ukraine. Subsequently, the US agreed to send its Bradley fighting vehicles while Germany announced it would send its Marder armoured personnel carriers for the first time since the conflict began almost a year ago.&nbsp;

What is happening at NATO?

A report by CNN, citing western officials, says that the decision of sending more tanks by some countries but not by others was part of a broader assessment of the on-ground situation in Ukraine while NATO allies in recent weeks have been deciding the best course of action in providing specific types of assistance be it military or money.&nbsp;

There are also growing concerns about Western stocks of such weapons as Ukrainians have understandably been burning through ammunition at an astonishing rate, said NPR’s Frank Langfitt, reporting from Brussels, on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-chief-we-shouldnt-underestimate-russia-551140">NATO Chief: 'We shouldn't underestimate Russia'</a>

He also spoke about how every ambassador that he interacted with was worried about this as there was no demand or market for these kinds of heavy weapons and “nobody here saw a major land war coming. So now, NATO allies, they’re meeting with arms makers.”&nbsp;

Therefore, even NATO countries are trying to ramp up manufacturing and weapons supplies amid the unprecedented rise in demand. So far, several reports have suggested that as the conflict is nearing the one-year mark it is entering a new phase and Ukraine could witness major attacks from Russia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-happening-in-the-ukrainian-city-of-soledar-551528">Explained: What is happening in the Ukrainian city of Soledar?</a> 
 
Meanwhile, Germany remains concerned about causing further provocations against Moscow, European officials have argued that they have shared enough weapons and intelligence which has significantly benefited Kyiv. Therefore, sending tanks cannot be that big an escalation, regardless of what Russia might say about the move, reported CNN.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv’s western allies might have finally answered the country’s long standing call to supply modern battle tanks. On late Saturday (January 14), the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office said that Britain would be sending 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with some other artillery to support Ukraine.

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv’s western allies might have finally answered the country’s long standing call to supply modern battle tanks. On late Saturday (January 14), the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office said that Britain would be sending 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with some other artillery to support Ukraine. This comes after the UK PM and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephonic conversation during which Sunak confirmed that he would send tanks and additional weapons to Kyiv. Meanwhile, Germany for weeks has been considering sending tanks amid growing pressure from France and Poland. UK to send 14 tanks and weapons to Ukraine The announcement was made by UK PM Sunak’s office after the two leaders spoke, late Saturday, “As the people of Ukraine approach their second year living under relentless Russian bombardment, the Prime Minister is dedicated to ensuring Ukraine wins this war,” said the British prime minister’s office, in a statement. ALSO READ | Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend In the upcoming weeks, the UK is planning to send a squadron of 14 Challenger 2 tanks along with 30 self-propelled AS90 guns which would be operated by five gunners. Furthermore, Britain will also train Ukrainian army personnel on how to use the tanks as well as the guns. This comes after the British PM highlighted the country’s “ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine”, as per a readout of a phone call with Zelensky. According to Sunak’s office, he believes a “long and static war only serves Russia’s interests”. It added, “UK defence and security officials believe a window has opened up where Russia is on the backfoot due to resupply issues and plummeting morale.” Additionally, the UK PM believes that the British Army’s main battle tank would help Ukrainian forces “push Russian troops back”. Notably, this move now makes Britain the first western country to supply Kyiv with heavy tanks which it has sought for some time now including US main battle tank M1 Abrams and German Leopard 2 tanks. ALSO READ | PM Rishi Sunak promises UK will supply battle tanks, artillery to Ukraine After the conversation and announcement, Zelensky took to Twitter and thanked the UK PM for his decision to send the tanks and said, “that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield but also send the right signal to other partners.” He also spoke about how UK’s support was “always strong" and was “now impenetrable”. Always strong support of the UK is now impenetrable and ready for challenges. In a conversation with the Prime Minister, @RishiSunak, I thanked for the decisions that will not only strengthen us on the battlefield, but also send the right signal to other partners. — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 14, 2023 × Earlier this week, Sunak’s office also spoke about coordinating efforts with allies Germany, France and the United States as they are among the countries who have also indicated that they would be willing to send armoured vehicles to Ukraine. How has Russia responded to the UK's announcement? The announcement received a swift response from the Russian Embassy in London which said that sending tanks to Ukraine would be evidence of the “increasingly obvious involvement of London in the conflict” as well as “intensify” the conflict and lead to more casualties including civilians. ALSO READ | Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' According to the Russian news agency TASS, the embassy said, “As for the Challenger 2 tanks, they are unlikely to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine turn the tide on the battlefield, but they will become a legitimate large target for the Russian artillery.” Similarly, in response to the UK's decision to send Challenger tanks, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reiterated her response that “weapons supplies are legitimate targets for Russian strikes.” What are Challenger 2 tanks? According to the British Army, Challenger 2 is a battle tank designed to attack other tanks and has been in service since 1994. It was deployed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Iraq, reported Reuters. While they are over two decades old they will be the most modern tank at Ukraine's disposal amid the ongoing conflict. ALSO READ | Ukraine alleges Russia cancelled scheduled prisoner exchange at the last minute The Challenger 2 is a 64-tonne main battle tank, built by British Aerospace Systems in the 1990s and has a maximum speed ranging from 40 km/hour to 59 km/hour which can cover a distance of 250 km to 450 km. It can also carry a four-member crew with a commander, gunner, loader and driver and is armed with a 120mm rifled tank gun, Boeing 7.62mm chain gun, a 7.62 mm General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), and L37A2 anti-air machine gun, reported Al Jazeera. Germany under pressure Earlier this month, Berlin agreed to supply Ukraine with Marder infantry fighting vehicles as well as the Patriot air system. However, there has been mounting pressure on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to authorise the re-export of modern battle tanks to Kyiv. However, Scholz previously said that such a move would have to be coordinated with the entire Western alliance, including the US. Furthermore, reports suggest that the German Chancellor has been reluctant to send battle tanks as he does not want to act alone while some western leaders are being cautious about the aid and weapons they send to Ukraine as their response can be viewed as an escalation or provocation by Russia. So far, Kyiv’s allies like Poland and the Czech Republic have only been willing to send the country Soviet-era T-72 tanks. ALSO WATCH | Turkey pushes for Russia- Ukraine peace talks According to estimates by the European Council on Foreign Relations, there are nearly 2,000 Leopard tanks in Europe. “The Ukrainians really want the Leopards because there are lots in stock across Europe,” said a French official familiar with the discussions to Politico. Germany’s support is seen as crucial being one of the biggest economies in the EU and also because while 13 European countries are reportedly in possession of Leopard 2 tanks including Poland, France, and Finland they need Berlin’s authorisation to re-export the procured tanks. Since the Leopards are being produced by Munich-based defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann their delivery to Ukraine would require the authorisation of the country of origin which in this case is Germany. However, on Thursday, Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, said that Berlin should not block any countries from re-exporting Leopard tanks. “Germany should not stand in the way of other countries taking decisions to support Ukraine, independent of which decisions Germany takes,” said Habeck, on the sidelines of the Greens party meeting in Berlin. ALSO READ | Explained: What we know about Ukraine’s deadliest attack on Russia since the conflict began Additionally, German deputy government spokeswoman, Christiane Hoffmann, addressing a press conference, said that Berlin has not received a formal request from either Poland or Finland but also said that sending the tanks without their approval would be “illegal”. Germany is still in the midst of considering the right thing to do and how to best support Ukraine, Hoffmann added. Last week, the Berlin government spokesperson also stressed that one of the key goals for the country is to not become an active part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. ALSO READ | Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 25 killed, 43 missing A report by Bloomberg citing two officials familiar with the German government’s thinking said that they believe that Berlin will likely decide to supply the Leopards to Ukraine. The report, citing a German official familiar with the matter, also claims that the country will make a decision before an upcoming meeting between US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and his German counterpart Christine Lambrecht at the American airbase in Ramstein scheduled for later this month. What about other European nations? The President of Poland, Andrzej Duda had earlier indicated that while they are ready to send Leopard tanks to Kyiv it would only be possible under a larger international coalition of tank aid to Ukraine. According to the German institute Kiel’s Ukraine Support Tracker, Poland has already sent at least 200 Soviet-style tanks, while countries like UK, France and Poland have also given a total of $12 billion as military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Did NATO push Ukraine into war? Earlier this month, France said that it would send its AMX-10 RC armoured combat vehicles which are deemed “light tanks” in Paris to Ukraine. Subsequently, the US agreed to send its Bradley fighting vehicles while Germany announced it would send its Marder armoured personnel carriers for the first time since the conflict began almost a year ago. What is happening at NATO? A report by CNN, citing western officials, says that the decision of sending more tanks by some countries but not by others was part of a broader assessment of the on-ground situation in Ukraine while NATO allies in recent weeks have been deciding the best course of action in providing specific types of assistance be it military or money. There are also growing concerns about Western stocks of such weapons as Ukrainians have understandably been burning through ammunition at an astonishing rate, said NPR’s Frank Langfitt, reporting from Brussels, on Thursday. ALSO WATCH | NATO Chief: 'We shouldn't underestimate Russia' He also spoke about how every ambassador that he interacted with was worried about this as there was no demand or market for these kinds of heavy weapons and “nobody here saw a major land war coming. So now, NATO allies, they’re meeting with arms makers.” Therefore, even NATO countries are trying to ramp up manufacturing and weapons supplies amid the unprecedented rise in demand. So far, several reports have suggested that as the conflict is nearing the one-year mark it is entering a new phase and Ukraine could witness major attacks from Russia. ALSO READ | Explained: What is happening in the Ukrainian city of Soledar? Meanwhile, Germany remains concerned about causing further provocations against Moscow, European officials have argued that they have shared enough weapons and intelligence which has significantly benefited Kyiv. Therefore, sending tanks cannot be that big an escalation, regardless of what Russia might say about the move, reported CNN. (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: Are European allies planning to send tanks 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. 
 
Several strikes were launched by Russian forces targetting the Ukrainian cities of Kyiv, Kharkiv and Dnipro. At least 25&nbsp;people were killed and 43 are missing in a strike on a residential building in Dnipro, a city in centre-east Ukraine, on Saturday, the Ukrainian regional governor said.&nbsp; 
 
“Twenty innocent victims...,” Dnipropetrovsk governor Valentyn Reznichenko said on messaging app Telegram, after posting that 73 were wounded and that “the rescue operation continues. The fate of more than 43 people remains unknown.”

Meanwhile, critical infrastructure in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and eastern city Kharkiv was hit by Russian missile attack on Saturday morning.&nbsp;

Watch | Ukraine denies Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar

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Governor of another region warned of a massive missile strike in coming hours. Reuters reported that air raid sirens were sounded in Kyiv after blasts were heard.&nbsp;

"Explosions in Dniprovskiy district. All agencies heading to the site. Stay in your shelters!" Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko wrote on the Telegram messaging app. 
 
Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat and cede territory to Ukrainian forces. Russia then has started to mount missile attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure.&nbsp;

"Missile attack on critical infrastructure facilities. Details are being checked," said Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president's office.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-eve-of-first-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-zelensky-wants-to-visit-un-and-address-general-assembly-552577">Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year</a>

Oleg Synehubov, Kharkiv's regional governor, said two S-300 missiles struck the city near the Russian border early on Saturday. The attacks hit critical energy infrastructure and industrial facilities in the Kharkiv and Chuhuev district of the region, he said.

"Our emergency services units and energy workers are working to liquidate the consequences and stabilise the situation with energy supplies," he said.

In Kyiv, the mayor said the debris of a missile came down on a non-residential area in the Holosiivskiy district in the west of Kyiv, causing a fire but hurting no one.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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. Several strikes were launched by Russian forces targetting the Ukrainian cities of Kyiv, Kharkiv and Dnipro. At least 25 people were killed and 43 are missing in a strike on a residential building in Dnipro, a city in centre-east Ukraine, on Saturday, the Ukrainian regional governor said. “Twenty innocent victims...,” Dnipropetrovsk governor Valentyn Reznichenko said on messaging app Telegram, after posting that 73 were wounded and that “the rescue operation continues. The fate of more than 43 people remains unknown.” Meanwhile, critical infrastructure in Ukraine's capital Kyiv and eastern city Kharkiv was hit by Russian missile attack on Saturday morning. Watch | Ukraine denies Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar × Governor of another region warned of a massive missile strike in coming hours. Reuters reported that air raid sirens were sounded in Kyiv after blasts were heard. "Explosions in Dniprovskiy district. All agencies heading to the site. Stay in your shelters!" Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko wrote on the Telegram messaging app. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. After sustained gains in first few months of the conflict, Russian forces had to retreat and cede territory to Ukrainian forces. Russia then has started to mount missile attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure. "Missile attack on critical infrastructure facilities. Details are being checked," said Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the president's office. Also Read | Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year Oleg Synehubov, Kharkiv's regional governor, said two S-300 missiles struck the city near the Russian border early on Saturday. The attacks hit critical energy infrastructure and industrial facilities in the Kharkiv and Chuhuev district of the region, he said. "Our emergency services units and energy workers are working to liquidate the consequences and stabilise the situation with energy supplies," he said. In Kyiv, the mayor said the debris of a missile came down on a non-residential area in the Holosiivskiy district in the west of Kyiv, causing a fire but hurting no one. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 25 killed, 43 missing

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 President Vladimir Putin said that a positive trend is visible in the special military operation in Ukraine and that the Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar.&nbsp;

While speaking on Rossiya 1 state television, Putin said, "The dynamic is positive. Everything is developing within the framework of the plan of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff."

"And I hope that our fighters will please us even more with the results of their combat," said Putin.

On Friday, Russia claimed that Soledar, a town in east Ukraine, has been captured by its forces, in what can be considered a rare success for the Russian military after facing battlefield reverses for months.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-hit-ukrainian-capital-more-attacks-expected-elsewhere-552596">Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 20 killed, 64 injured</a>

Talking about Russia's economy, Putin said, "The situation in the economy is stable. Much better than not only what our opponents predicted but also what we forecast."&nbsp;

He added that the key indicator was unemployment. "Unemployment is at a historic low. Inflation is lower than expected and has, importantly, a downward trend,” he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the defence ministry of Russia on Sunday confirmed that several missile strikes were launched by its forces against the infrastructure sites and military of Ukraine on Saturday.

WATCH| Ukraine witness emergency blackouts after Russian strikes

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Around 23&nbsp;people lost their lives on Saturday in Russia's strike on an apartment complex in Dnipro, an eastern city of Ukraine, the authorities said.&nbsp;

Russia, in its statement, said: "All assigned objects were hit. The targets of the strike have been achieved." Moscow further informed that the troops have moved towards Bakhmut city in the Donetsk region of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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. Russian President Vladimir Putin said that a positive trend is visible in the special military operation in Ukraine and that the Russian soldiers will deliver more results after an attack on Soledar. While speaking on Rossiya 1 state television, Putin said, "The dynamic is positive. Everything is developing within the framework of the plan of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff." "And I hope that our fighters will please us even more with the results of their combat," said Putin. On Friday, Russia claimed that Soledar, a town in east Ukraine, has been captured by its forces, in what can be considered a rare success for the Russian military after facing battlefield reverses for months. ALSO READ| Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 20 killed, 64 injured Talking about Russia's economy, Putin said, "The situation in the economy is stable. Much better than not only what our opponents predicted but also what we forecast." He added that the key indicator was unemployment. "Unemployment is at a historic low. Inflation is lower than expected and has, importantly, a downward trend,” he said. Meanwhile, the defence ministry of Russia on Sunday confirmed that several missile strikes were launched by its forces against the infrastructure sites and military of Ukraine on Saturday. WATCH| Ukraine witness emergency blackouts after Russian strikes Around 23 people lost their lives on Saturday in Russia's strike on an apartment complex in Dnipro, an eastern city of Ukraine, the authorities said. Russia, in its statement, said: "All assigned objects were hit. The targets of the strike have been achieved." Moscow further informed that the troops have moved towards Bakhmut city in the Donetsk region of 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

Putin says special military operation in Ukraine showing positive trend

A Russian lawmaker has hinted that Russia may raise the age range for compulsory military service for the citizens. The change may take place as early as this spring. In an interview with Russia's official parliamentary newspaper, chairman of the Russian parliament's defence committee, Andrei Kartapolov said that the age range may be changed from 18-27 years to 21-30 years. He said that the change may be brought into force this spring but only after the provision of a one-to-three-year "transition period".

Critics said the idea of a transition period was a transparent attempt by Russian authorities to increase the number of Russians eligible to be called up for military service to plug massive manpower shortages resulting from heavy losses in Ukraine.

Russia's armed forces are a mix of contracted soldiers and conscripts. Shoigu has outlined plans to increase the total number of combat personnel to 1.5 million from 1.15 million.

Asked about the possible changes, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday that President Vladimir Putin "conceptually supported" raising the conscription age, but the exact details were up to the defence ministry to work out.

The role of conscripts in Ukraine came under intense focus soon after Russia sent in troops last February, with the defence ministry acknowledging some had been sent to fight there despite statements from Putin that this would not happen.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Russian lawmaker has hinted that Russia may raise the age range for compulsory military service for the citizens. The change may take place as early as this spring.

A Russian lawmaker has hinted that Russia may raise the age range for compulsory military service for the citizens. The change may take place as early as this spring. In an interview with Russia's official parliamentary newspaper, chairman of the Russian parliament's defence committee, Andrei Kartapolov said that the age range may be changed from 18-27 years to 21-30 years. He said that the change may be brought into force this spring but only after the provision of a one-to-three-year "transition period". Critics said the idea of a transition period was a transparent attempt by Russian authorities to increase the number of Russians eligible to be called up for military service to plug massive manpower shortages resulting from heavy losses in Ukraine. Russia's armed forces are a mix of contracted soldiers and conscripts. Shoigu has outlined plans to increase the total number of combat personnel to 1.5 million from 1.15 million. Asked about the possible changes, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday that President Vladimir Putin "conceptually supported" raising the conscription age, but the exact details were up to the defence ministry to work out. The role of conscripts in Ukraine came under intense focus soon after Russia sent in troops last February, with the defence ministry acknowledging some had been sent to fight there despite statements from Putin that this would not happen. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia plans to increase age range of conscription, Putin ‘supports’ idea

After a protracted fight, the Russian military claims to have taken control of the Ukrainian salt-mine town of Soledar, describing it as a "significant" milestone in its offensive.

War in Ukraine: Russia launches fresh attack on Ukrainian cities, claims victory in Soledar

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday, during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky,&nbsp;promised to provide tanks and artillery system to Ukraine amid renewed missile attacks by Moscow targeting the Ukrainian capital and other cities.&nbsp;As per an AP report, Britain and Ukraine discussed delivering the Challenger 2 tanks which will help the latter fight the Russian forces.&nbsp;

The office of Sunak had previously said that Britain and its allies would co-ordinate their support after France, Germany and the United States last week indicated that they would send armoured vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp;

"The prime minister outlined the UK’s ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine, including through the provision of Challenger 2 tanks and additional artillery systems,” said a spokesperson for Sunak.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

"They agreed on the need to seize on this moment with an acceleration of global military and diplomatic support to Ukraine,” he added.&nbsp;

A battle tank, Challenger 2, has been designed to counter other tanks and has remained in the service of the British Army since 1994.&nbsp;

"The prime minister and President Zelenskiy welcomed other international commitments in this vein, including Poland’s offer to provide a company of Leopard tanks," said the spokesperson.

British media has reported that four British Army Challenger 2 main battle tanks will be sent to eastern Europe immediately, with eight more to follow shortly after, but&nbsp;did not cite sources.&nbsp;The announcement came several hours after a series of explosions rocked Kyiv on Saturday morning. 
 
Ukrainian president's staff head Andriy Yermak thanked the UK for providing its new defence package.

"This is an important contribution to the defence of freedom and democracy in Europe. We are grateful to Rishi Sunak and the (British) people for their help," he wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

WATCH | Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again

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Nations to provide tanks, military support

French armed forces minister Sebastien Lecornu on Friday had stated that the country plans to send 'AMX 10-RC' light combat tanks to Ukraine in a duration of two months.&nbsp;

Poland had also announced that it will be proving Leopard tanks, as part of an international coalition, to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Polish president Andrzej Duda said, “A company of Leopard tanks will be handed over as part of coalition-building. We want it to be an international coalition."&nbsp;

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also been facing pressure to provide Kyiv with more international military support by permitting Leopard 2 battle tanks' export to Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday, during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, promised to provide tanks and artillery system to Ukraine amid renewed missile attacks by Moscow targeting the Ukrainian capital and other cities.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday, during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, promised to provide tanks and artillery system to Ukraine amid renewed missile attacks by Moscow targeting the Ukrainian capital and other cities. As per an AP report, Britain and Ukraine discussed delivering the Challenger 2 tanks which will help the latter fight the Russian forces. The office of Sunak had previously said that Britain and its allies would co-ordinate their support after France, Germany and the United States last week indicated that they would send armoured vehicles to Ukraine. "The prime minister outlined the UK’s ambition to intensify our support to Ukraine, including through the provision of Challenger 2 tanks and additional artillery systems,” said a spokesperson for Sunak. ALSO READ| Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' "They agreed on the need to seize on this moment with an acceleration of global military and diplomatic support to Ukraine,” he added. A battle tank, Challenger 2, has been designed to counter other tanks and has remained in the service of the British Army since 1994. "The prime minister and President Zelenskiy welcomed other international commitments in this vein, including Poland’s offer to provide a company of Leopard tanks," said the spokesperson. British media has reported that four British Army Challenger 2 main battle tanks will be sent to eastern Europe immediately, with eight more to follow shortly after, but did not cite sources. The announcement came several hours after a series of explosions rocked Kyiv on Saturday morning. Ukrainian president's staff head Andriy Yermak thanked the UK for providing its new defence package. "This is an important contribution to the defence of freedom and democracy in Europe. We are grateful to Rishi Sunak and the (British) people for their help," he wrote on Twitter. WATCH | Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again Nations to provide tanks, military support French armed forces minister Sebastien Lecornu on Friday had stated that the country plans to send 'AMX 10-RC' light combat tanks to Ukraine in a duration of two months. Poland had also announced that it will be proving Leopard tanks, as part of an international coalition, to Ukraine. Polish president Andrzej Duda said, “A company of Leopard tanks will be handed over as part of coalition-building. We want it to be an international coalition." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also been facing pressure to provide Kyiv with more international military support by permitting Leopard 2 battle tanks' export to Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Rishi Sunak promises UK will supply battle tanks, artillery to Ukraine

The Turkish government said on Saturday (January 14) that it was ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine but said that neither Russia nor Ukraine had the military means to win the war. Ibrahim Kalin, the foreign policy advisor of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told reporters, "Turkey is willing to push for local ceasefires and small localised de-escalations. Neither party is in a position to win the war militarily, on the ground," a report by news agency AFP said. Kalin conceded it seemed unlikely that Moscow and Kyiv were ready to strike an "overarching peace deal" in the coming months.

However, the advisor pointed out that the brutal cost of fighting might soon see the warring sides reconsider and accept localised truces in specific parts of the war zone.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-soledar-city-controlled-by-kyiv-fight-ongoing-says-report-552635">Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report</a>

Since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine on February 24 last year, President Erdogan has used his good relations with Moscow and Kyiv to try and mediate an end to the conflict. Erdogan has held repeated telephonic conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky aimed at finding common ground, the report said.&nbsp;

Turkey had hosted two early rounds of peace talks and helped strike an UN-backed agreement restoring Ukrainian grain deliveries across the Black Sea. A few weeks back, Turkish defence minister Hulusi Akar had said that his government called for at least a humanitarian ceasefire, then a permanent ceasefire and then peace talks. Akar said on December 27 last year that the war will not end easily despite Turkey's efforts to arrange peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

The war in Ukraine will soon enter its 12th month with President Volodymyr Zelensky wanting to visit the United Nations and address a high-level meeting of the General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's offensive.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-eve-of-first-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-zelensky-wants-to-visit-un-and-address-general-assembly-552577">Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year</a>

On Saturday, key infrastructures in Kharkiv and the capital city of Kyiv were hit by Russian missiles while Ukraine said it is in control of the salt-mining city of Soledar. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged to provide Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine, making it the first Western country to supply Kyiv with main battle tanks. Last week, France, Germany and the United States pledged to send armoured fighting vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Turkish government said on Saturday (January 14) that it was ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine but said that neither Russia nor Ukraine had the military means to win the war.

The Turkish government said on Saturday (January 14) that it was ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine but said that neither Russia nor Ukraine had the military means to win the war. Ibrahim Kalin, the foreign policy advisor of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told reporters, "Turkey is willing to push for local ceasefires and small localised de-escalations. Neither party is in a position to win the war militarily, on the ground," a report by news agency AFP said. Kalin conceded it seemed unlikely that Moscow and Kyiv were ready to strike an "overarching peace deal" in the coming months. However, the advisor pointed out that the brutal cost of fighting might soon see the warring sides reconsider and accept localised truces in specific parts of the war zone. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report Since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine on February 24 last year, President Erdogan has used his good relations with Moscow and Kyiv to try and mediate an end to the conflict. Erdogan has held repeated telephonic conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky aimed at finding common ground, the report said. Turkey had hosted two early rounds of peace talks and helped strike an UN-backed agreement restoring Ukrainian grain deliveries across the Black Sea. A few weeks back, Turkish defence minister Hulusi Akar had said that his government called for at least a humanitarian ceasefire, then a permanent ceasefire and then peace talks. Akar said on December 27 last year that the war will not end easily despite Turkey's efforts to arrange peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. The war in Ukraine will soon enter its 12th month with President Volodymyr Zelensky wanting to visit the United Nations and address a high-level meeting of the General Assembly on the eve of the first anniversary of Russia's offensive. ALSO READ | Zelensky wants to address UN General Assembly when Russian invasion completes one year On Saturday, key infrastructures in Kharkiv and the capital city of Kyiv were hit by Russian missiles while Ukraine said it is in control of the salt-mining city of Soledar. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged to provide Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine, making it the first Western country to supply Kyiv with main battle tanks. Last week, France, Germany and the United States pledged to send armoured fighting vehicles to Ukraine. (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.

Ready to push for local ceasefires in Ukraine, says Turkey

Ukraine is in one of a new looming Russian assault, this time from Belarus. In the North, Kyiv fears that Belarus could in fact be used as one possible launch path as Moscow is seeking to revolve its faltering invasion. The Ukrainian border guards are ready for any action at the Ukraine-Belarusian border.

War in Ukraine: Russia and Belarus hold regular drills on Belarus' territory

Russia said its forces had wrested control of the war-scarred town of Soledar in east Ukraine. Kyiv has denied the Moscow's claim and said that severe fighting was on in the nearly completely destroyed town that is now the epicentre of the war.

Ukraine dismisses Russia's claim, says severe fighting in Soledar

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (January 12) said that Ukrainian troops were still holding out against pro-Russia forces in Soledar, the salt mining town in eastern Ukraine. More than 500 civilians including children are trapped there.&nbsp;In a video address, Zelensky thanked two units in Soledar that he said "are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on the enemy." He did not give more details.

He said that he, along with senior commanders of the Ukrainian military analysed need for reinforcements in Soledar and nearby towns.

Russia's ultra-nationalist contract militia Wagner Group, run by an ally of President Vladimir Putin, had earlier claimed to have taken Soledar after intense fighting that it said left the town strewn with Ukrainian dead.

Watch | Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again?

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Moscow however, had then officially restrained from proclaiming a victory, which would be its first significant gain in six months, and said the fighting is on.

"At the moment, there are still some small pockets of resistance in Soledar," Andrei Bayevsky, a Russian-installed local politician, said in an online broadcast.

On Friday (January 13), however,&nbsp;Lt. Gen. Igor Konashenkov, who is the Russian Defence Ministry's spokesman, said: "The liberation of the town of Soledar was completed in the evening of January 12."&nbsp;

Konashenkov added that the development was important for the continuation of offensive operations in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;Konashenkov further said that taking control of Soledar would allow Russian forces to cut supply lines for the Ukrainian forces in the Donestsk city of Bakhmut and then block and encircle the Ukrainian units there.&nbsp;

Reuters said it was unable to independently verify the situation.

Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian state TV that 559 civilians remained in Soledar, including 15 children, and could not be evacuated from the community that had a pre-war population of about 10,000.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (January 12) said that Ukrainian troops were still holding out against pro-Russia forces in Soledar, the salt mining town in eastern Ukraine.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday (January 12) said that Ukrainian troops were still holding out against pro-Russia forces in Soledar, the salt mining town in eastern Ukraine. More than 500 civilians including children are trapped there. In a video address, Zelensky thanked two units in Soledar that he said "are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on the enemy." He did not give more details. He said that he, along with senior commanders of the Ukrainian military analysed need for reinforcements in Soledar and nearby towns. Russia's ultra-nationalist contract militia Wagner Group, run by an ally of President Vladimir Putin, had earlier claimed to have taken Soledar after intense fighting that it said left the town strewn with Ukrainian dead. Watch | Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again? × Moscow however, had then officially restrained from proclaiming a victory, which would be its first significant gain in six months, and said the fighting is on. "At the moment, there are still some small pockets of resistance in Soledar," Andrei Bayevsky, a Russian-installed local politician, said in an online broadcast. On Friday (January 13), however, Lt. Gen. Igor Konashenkov, who is the Russian Defence Ministry's spokesman, said: "The liberation of the town of Soledar was completed in the evening of January 12." Konashenkov added that the development was important for the continuation of offensive operations in the Donetsk region. Konashenkov further said that taking control of Soledar would allow Russian forces to cut supply lines for the Ukrainian forces in the Donestsk city of Bakhmut and then block and encircle the Ukrainian units there. Reuters said it was unable to independently verify the situation. Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian state TV that 559 civilians remained in Soledar, including 15 children, and could not be evacuated from the community that had a pre-war population of about 10,000. (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 ×

Ukrainian forces still holding out in Soledar, claims Zelensky

Russia claims it has completed liberation of Soledar, Ukraine denies

Russian troops have claimed control of the eastern Ukrainian town of Soledar after weeks of intense fighting, Russia’s defence ministry says.

War in Ukraine: Russia's Wagner group claims to have taken Ukraine's Soledar

Russian President Vladimir Putin has publically rebuked the Russian Deputy Prime Minister. Russia has also replaced the commander in charge of the war in Ukraine.

WION Fineprint | Putin publicly rebukes deputy Prime Minister

Russia has once again replaced its military commander in Ukraine putting army chief of staff Valery Gerasimov in charge of its forces in the conflict. Watch this to know more.

Why is Russia replacing its top military commander in Ukraine again?

Russia replaces military commander in Ukraine again

Around 100 Ukrainian troops will head to Oklahoma's Fort Sill to start their training in Patriot missile defense system. The motive behind this is to get Kyiv closer to obtain protection against Russia's missile attacks. Watch further to know more.

Ukraine troops to get Patriot training in U.S.

The Patriot missile defence system training for about 100 Ukrainian troops will commence next week in the United States. By inviting Ukrainian soldiers for weapon training, the US administration has intensified its involvement in the Ukraine-Russia war, bringing Kyiv one step closer to gaining the long-desired defence against Russia's ongoing missile attacks.

When will the US provide training to Ukrainian troops on Patriot missiles?

Ukraine-Russian troops are pushing forward to capture a small salt mining town of Soledar in eastern Ukraine. Officials in Kyiv said that Ukrainian troops are fighting back waves of attacks led by the Wagner contract group.

War in Ukraine: Battle centers on Eastern town of Soledar, fighting intensifies

Russia's Federal Budget Deficit worsened to a record level in December driven by limits on all exports at a time when spending has increased on the Ukraine war. Fiscal gap surged to a record high of 56 million dollars pendings for the year increase by more than a third from pre-war projections.

Russia: Government already started cut back on non-war spendings

The war in Ukraine rages on. Russian forces are striving to make their first breakthrough in months. Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited the city of Kharkiv in a short solidarity with Ukraine.

War in Ukraine: Russia intensifies attack in East of Ukraine, Russia targets mining town of Soledar

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday (January 10) said Russia was mobilizing more troops for the war in Ukraine and should not be underestimated.

NATO Chief: 'We shouldn't underestimate Russia'

Russia's federal budget deficit worsened to a record level in December, driven by limits on oil exports at a time when spending on the invasion of Ukraine increased, according to a Bloomberg report.

Last month's fiscal imbalance was a record-high of 3.9 trillion roubles ($56 billion), according to calculations by Bloomberg based on unofficial government statistics provided on Tuesday.

As a result, the annual shortfall increased to roughly 3.3 trillion roubles, turning around an excess in the first 11 months of the year. The Finance Ministry is anticipated to reveal more comprehensive data shortly.

However, the ministry did not immediately react to a request for comment, reported Bloomberg.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-breaks-world-record-for-largest-ever-loss-of-personal-fortune-551123">Elon Musk breaks world record for largest-ever loss of personal fortune</a>

According to preliminary figures, spending for the year increased by more than a third from pre-war projections. Government spending in Russia is mostly seasonal, with significant increases frequently occurring at the end of the year, resulting in a larger deficit.

In the first half, exports of high-priced goods like oil, gas, and other commodities helped offset spending increases, but the pattern is gradually changing.

Following the Group of Seven (G7) nations' imposition of a cap intended to curb the Kremlin's profits, the price of Russian oil plunged.

To make up the difference, the government has already begun to cut back on or postpone non-war spending and is considering raising taxes on some large corporations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/global-central-banks-credibility-at-risk-over-rising-inflation-raghuram-rajan-551094">Global central banks' credibility at risk over rising inflation: Raghuram Rajan</a>

Due to years of stringent measures implemented before the invasion, Russia's financial condition is robust despite the pressures.

According to projections, the deficit for this year will be 2 per cent of GDP, which is the same as the deficit for 2022. But,&nbsp;the current forecast is based on an oil price of $70 per barrel, about $20 above levels seen in December.

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Russia's federal budget deficit worsened to a record level in December, driven by limits on oil exports at a time when spending on the invasion of Ukraine increased, according to a Bloomberg report.

Russia's federal budget deficit worsened to a record level in December, driven by limits on oil exports at a time when spending on the invasion of Ukraine increased, according to a Bloomberg report. Last month's fiscal imbalance was a record-high of 3.9 trillion roubles ($56 billion), according to calculations by Bloomberg based on unofficial government statistics provided on Tuesday. As a result, the annual shortfall increased to roughly 3.3 trillion roubles, turning around an excess in the first 11 months of the year. The Finance Ministry is anticipated to reveal more comprehensive data shortly. However, the ministry did not immediately react to a request for comment, reported Bloomberg. Also read | Elon Musk breaks world record for largest-ever loss of personal fortune According to preliminary figures, spending for the year increased by more than a third from pre-war projections. Government spending in Russia is mostly seasonal, with significant increases frequently occurring at the end of the year, resulting in a larger deficit. In the first half, exports of high-priced goods like oil, gas, and other commodities helped offset spending increases, but the pattern is gradually changing. Following the Group of Seven (G7) nations' imposition of a cap intended to curb the Kremlin's profits, the price of Russian oil plunged. To make up the difference, the government has already begun to cut back on or postpone non-war spending and is considering raising taxes on some large corporations. Also read | Global central banks' credibility at risk over rising inflation: Raghuram Rajan Due to years of stringent measures implemented before the invasion, Russia's financial condition is robust despite the pressures. According to projections, the deficit for this year will be 2 per cent of GDP, which is the same as the deficit for 2022. But, the current forecast is based on an oil price of $70 per barrel, about $20 above levels seen in December. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia's budget gap surges to record high as Ukraine war weighs on finances

A Russian warship armed with hypersonic cruise weapons has held exercises in the Norwegian Sea, Russia's defence ministry said on Tuesday (January 10).

Russian warship armed with Zircon hypersonic missiles holds drills in Norwegian Sea

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;

The separatist forces, supported by Russia, present in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region on Monday said that a village has been seized by Russian forces near the important city of Bakhmut.&nbsp;

The village of Bakhmutske in "the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic was liberated by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation," said a statement released on Telegram by the separatist authorities on Monday.&nbsp;

Responding to the report, the mercenary group Wagner, which is associated with Kremlin, issued a statement on social media saying that Bakhmutske was already "liberated" by its forces last month.

Founder of Wagner Yevgeny Prigozhin separately clarified on social media that the group's units were “exclusively” storming Soledar.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-conducts-retaliatory-strike-in-kramatorsk-for-makiivka-attack-550503">Ukraine war: Russia claims it killed over '600 Ukrainian servicemen' in 'retaliatory strike' in Kramatorsk</a>

In his evening address delivered on Sunday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the area between Soledar and Bakhmut is "one of the bloodiest places on the front".&nbsp;

Supply of arms by West will prolong Ukraine's suffering, claims Kremlin&nbsp;

On Monday, the Kremlin claimed that the supply of arms and weapons from Western countries, which include light tanks, will only increase the suffering of Ukrainians.&nbsp;

WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: US warns of acute threats from Russia

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"Fundamentally, these deliveries cannot and will not change anything... (they) can only prolong the suffering of the Ukrainian people," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while responding to the decision of France to supply armoured vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp;

The Kremlin said that Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin remain in contact. Peskov said the world leaders have been in contact which has been "very useful, despite deep differences."

(With inputs from agencies)

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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. The separatist forces, supported by Russia, present in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region on Monday said that a village has been seized by Russian forces near the important city of Bakhmut. The village of Bakhmutske in "the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic was liberated by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation," said a statement released on Telegram by the separatist authorities on Monday. Responding to the report, the mercenary group Wagner, which is associated with Kremlin, issued a statement on social media saying that Bakhmutske was already "liberated" by its forces last month. Founder of Wagner Yevgeny Prigozhin separately clarified on social media that the group's units were “exclusively” storming Soledar. ALSO READ| Ukraine war: Russia claims it killed over '600 Ukrainian servicemen' in 'retaliatory strike' in Kramatorsk In his evening address delivered on Sunday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the area between Soledar and Bakhmut is "one of the bloodiest places on the front". Supply of arms by West will prolong Ukraine's suffering, claims Kremlin On Monday, the Kremlin claimed that the supply of arms and weapons from Western countries, which include light tanks, will only increase the suffering of Ukrainians. WATCH| Russia-Ukraine War: US warns of acute threats from Russia "Fundamentally, these deliveries cannot and will not change anything... (they) can only prolong the suffering of the Ukrainian people," said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while responding to the decision of France to supply armoured vehicles to Ukraine. The Kremlin said that Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin remain in contact. Peskov said the world leaders have been in contact which has been "very useful, despite deep differences." (With inputs from agencies)

Village in east Ukraine near Bakhmut captured by Russia, claim separatists

Russia’s defence ministry blamed the illegal use of mobile phones by its soldiers for the deadly New Year’s attack in Makiivka. The death toll of Russia’s servicemen has risen to 89.

“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,” the ministry said in a statement. "This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike."

The ministry's response came as outrage among some Russian Nationalists, who have been vociferous about what they perceive to be a lacklustre effort in Ukraine, was at its peak, Reuters reported.

The rage was mostly directed at the military commanders who were accused of ignoring a clear threat after the Kremlin admitted to losses in a strike on a makeshift barracks on Monday. Russian President Vladimir Putin has not commented on the attack yet.

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 deaths, according to a well-known Russian nationalist military blogger, were caused because&nbsp;the commanders kept&nbsp;weapons in the same building as barracks despite knowing it was within range of the Ukrainian military, The Independent reported.

Legislator and former head of Russia's upper house Sergei Mironov demanded for officials who “allowed the concentration of military personnel in an unprotected building” be held criminally liable.

Watch | Heavy Russian shelling in Kherson

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According to the Russian Defence Ministry, just after midnight on New Year's Day, four Ukrainian missiles struck a school that was converted into military quarters in Makiivka, a Moscow-controlled city in eastern Ukraine, CBC reported. The U.S.-made HIMARS launchers hit the building due to which the ceilings of the building collapsed, the defence ministry added.

On Monday, Ukraine claimed responsibility for the strike in Makiivka. However, in a video address on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made no mention of the attack but reiterated that&nbsp;Russia was about to conduct a big offensive to boost its standing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia’s defence ministry blamed the illegal use of mobile phones by its soldiers for the deadly New Year’s attack in Makiivka. The death toll of Russia’s servicemen has risen to 89.

Russia’s defence ministry blamed the illegal use of mobile phones by its soldiers for the deadly New Year’s attack in Makiivka. The death toll of Russia’s servicemen has risen to 89. “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,” the ministry said in a statement. "This factor allowed the enemy to track and determine the coordinates of the soldiers' location for a missile strike." The ministry's response came as outrage among some Russian Nationalists, who have been vociferous about what they perceive to be a lacklustre effort in Ukraine, was at its peak, Reuters reported. The rage was mostly directed at the military commanders who were accused of ignoring a clear threat after the Kremlin admitted to losses in a strike on a makeshift barracks on Monday. Russian President Vladimir Putin has not commented on the attack yet. Also Read | Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin slams the West for trying to 'tear apart' Russia The deaths, according to a well-known Russian nationalist military blogger, were caused because the commanders kept weapons in the same building as barracks despite knowing it was within range of the Ukrainian military, The Independent reported. Legislator and former head of Russia's upper house Sergei Mironov demanded for officials who “allowed the concentration of military personnel in an unprotected building” be held criminally liable. Watch | Heavy Russian shelling in Kherson × According to the Russian Defence Ministry, just after midnight on New Year's Day, four Ukrainian missiles struck a school that was converted into military quarters in Makiivka, a Moscow-controlled city in eastern Ukraine, CBC reported. The U.S.-made HIMARS launchers hit the building due to which the ceilings of the building collapsed, the defence ministry added. On Monday, Ukraine claimed responsibility for the strike in Makiivka. However, in a video address on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made no mention of the attack but reiterated that Russia was about to conduct a big offensive to boost its standing. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia blames mobile phones for missile strike in Makiivka that killed 89

Russia has ended a self-declared ceasefire that it had announced on account of the Orthodox Christmas and vowed to push on with combat until it emerges victorious over Ukraine. Fresh shelling was reported from Ukrainian town of Bakhmut overnight and both the sides have accused each other of not observing the ceasefire.

War in Ukraine: Russia ends self-declared Christmas ceasefire, fresh shelling in Bakhmut

War in Ukraine: Country reports fresh shelling in Donetsk, volunteers in Bakhmut help civilians

Russia has ended a self-declared ceasefire that it has declared on account of the Orthodox Christmas and vowed to push horns with combat until it emerges victorious.

Ukraine War: Russia ends self-declared Orthodox Christmas ceasefire

Iran tests military attack drones amidst global backlash over helping Russia in its Ukrainian invasion.

The West Asia Post: Iran tests military drone

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