Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday that the country's air defence systems had shot down 13 Iranian-made kamikaze drones that targeted the capital Kyiv earlier in the day.

Ukraine shot down 13 kamikaze drones in Kyiv attack: Zelensky

The United States has charged five Russian nationals and two Americans with conspiracy related to a global procurement and money laundering scheme on behalf of Moscow.&nbsp;

A statement issued by the Department of Justice on Tuesday said, "A 16-count superseding indictment was unsealed yesterday in Brooklyn charging five Russian nationals, Yevgeniy Grinin, Aleksey Ippolitov, Boris Livshits, Svetlana Skvortsova and Vadim Konoshchenok with conspiracy and other charges related to a global procurement and money laundering network on behalf of the Russian government."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-six-months-into-the-russia-ukraine-war-what-are-the-consequences-so-far-509615">Explained: Six months into the Russia-Ukraine war, what are the consequences so far?</a>

The statement said that Konoshchenok, a suspected officer with Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), was arrested in Estonia on December 6 and will undergo extradition proceedings to the US. On the other hand, Yevgeniy Grinin, Aleksey Ippolitov, Boris Livshits and Svetlana Skvortsova remain at large.&nbsp;

The statement said the two Americans charged are Alexey Brayman and Vadim Yermolenko and they have been arrested.&nbsp;

The 16-count superseding indictment alleged that these seven defendants unlawfully purchased and exported highly sensitive and heavily regulated electronic components- "some of which can be used in the development of nuclear and hypersonic weapons, quantum computing and other military applications,'' the statement said.&nbsp;

Following the war in Ukraine in February this year, the US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the Department of Commerce (DOC) Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) levied sanctions against Serniya, Sertal, Yevgeniy Grinin and several companies used in the scheme, as well as multiple individuals affiliated with the network, including defendant Yevgeniy Grinin, calling them “instrumental to the Russian Federation’s war machine,” it added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-is-jailing-beating-up-own-soldiers-who-refuse-to-fight-in-ukraine-report-542465">Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report</a>

Konoshchenok, a self-identified Colonel in the FSB, would ship or physically smuggle US-origin items from Estonia to Russia, including dual-use electronics, military-grade tactical ammunition and other export-controlled items. On October 27, &nbsp;Konoshchenok was stopped at the Estonia border with 35 different types of semiconductors and other electronic components ordered by Boris Livshits as well as thousands of US-made made 6.5mm bullets that are used in military sniper rifles, the Justice Department also said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The suspected FSB officer was again stopped on November 24 while attempting to cross into Russia with approximately twenty cases containing thousands of US-origin bullets, including tactical rounds and .338 military sniper rounds.&nbsp;

The Department further pointed out that if these defendants are convicted, they face a maximum of 30 years imprisonment.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States has charged five Russian nationals and two Americans with conspiracy related to a global procurement and money laundering scheme on behalf of Moscow.

The United States has charged five Russian nationals and two Americans with conspiracy related to a global procurement and money laundering scheme on behalf of Moscow. A statement issued by the Department of Justice on Tuesday said, "A 16-count superseding indictment was unsealed yesterday in Brooklyn charging five Russian nationals, Yevgeniy Grinin, Aleksey Ippolitov, Boris Livshits, Svetlana Skvortsova and Vadim Konoshchenok with conspiracy and other charges related to a global procurement and money laundering network on behalf of the Russian government." ALSO READ | Explained: Six months into the Russia-Ukraine war, what are the consequences so far? The statement said that Konoshchenok, a suspected officer with Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), was arrested in Estonia on December 6 and will undergo extradition proceedings to the US. On the other hand, Yevgeniy Grinin, Aleksey Ippolitov, Boris Livshits and Svetlana Skvortsova remain at large. The statement said the two Americans charged are Alexey Brayman and Vadim Yermolenko and they have been arrested. The 16-count superseding indictment alleged that these seven defendants unlawfully purchased and exported highly sensitive and heavily regulated electronic components- "some of which can be used in the development of nuclear and hypersonic weapons, quantum computing and other military applications,'' the statement said. Following the war in Ukraine in February this year, the US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the Department of Commerce (DOC) Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) levied sanctions against Serniya, Sertal, Yevgeniy Grinin and several companies used in the scheme, as well as multiple individuals affiliated with the network, including defendant Yevgeniy Grinin, calling them “instrumental to the Russian Federation’s war machine,” it added. ALSO READ | Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report Konoshchenok, a self-identified Colonel in the FSB, would ship or physically smuggle US-origin items from Estonia to Russia, including dual-use electronics, military-grade tactical ammunition and other export-controlled items. On October 27, Konoshchenok was stopped at the Estonia border with 35 different types of semiconductors and other electronic components ordered by Boris Livshits as well as thousands of US-made made 6.5mm bullets that are used in military sniper rifles, the Justice Department also said on Tuesday. The suspected FSB officer was again stopped on November 24 while attempting to cross into Russia with approximately twenty cases containing thousands of US-origin bullets, including tactical rounds and .338 military sniper rounds. The Department further pointed out that if these defendants are convicted, they face a maximum of 30 years imprisonment. (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. Live TV

US charges 5 Russians, 2 Americans for conspiring on behalf of Moscow

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 Ukrainian military reportedly damaged a key bridge outside the city of Melitopol, according to Russian authorities. The bridge was significant to Russia from a strategic point and according to Reuters, destroying it was one of the main objectives of the resistance forces in the region. The bridge ran over the Molochna River and connected the village of Kostyantynivka with Melitopol. In videos circulating on social media, two supports of the bridge appear damaged and part of it has slightly collapsed.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-lac-intrusion-attempt-set-to-rock-indian-parliament-542512">Tawang skirmish: Chinese army alleges Indian troops 'illegally' crossed border</a>

In the past few weeks, Ukraine has started to apply pressure on Russia in the Melitopol region. Earlier, the resistance forces used the same strategy while regaining Kherson and AFP reported that a Russian barrack will hit by HIMARS rockets just two days ago. Melitopol is a key city on the eastern bank of the Dnipro River and after the victory in Kherson, Kyiv has identified it as their next primary target.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Denis Pushilin, the Russian-installed administrator of the portion controlled by Moscow, told the Russian state-owned news agency RIA that Russia has already taken over half of Donetsk. It was one of the regions which Russia officially annexed following a series of referendums.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-parliament-removes-eva-kaili-as-vice-president-after-qatar-corruption-allegations-542734">European Parliament removes Kaili as vice-president after Qatar allegations</a>

“A little more than 50% of the territory of the Donetsk People’s Republic has been liberated.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine will need more than $800 million to repair the key energy infrastructure damaged by Russian missile strikes. During his address at an international aid event in Paris, he urged all G7 leaders to ensure that Ukrainians do not have to spend the winter without any electricity.&nbsp;

<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.

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 Ukrainian military reportedly damaged a key bridge outside the city of Melitopol, according to Russian authorities. The bridge was significant to Russia from a strategic point and according to Reuters, destroying it was one of the main objectives of the resistance forces in the region. The bridge ran over the Molochna River and connected the village of Kostyantynivka with Melitopol. In videos circulating on social media, two supports of the bridge appear damaged and part of it has slightly collapsed. Also read | Tawang skirmish: Chinese army alleges Indian troops 'illegally' crossed border In the past few weeks, Ukraine has started to apply pressure on Russia in the Melitopol region. Earlier, the resistance forces used the same strategy while regaining Kherson and AFP reported that a Russian barrack will hit by HIMARS rockets just two days ago. Melitopol is a key city on the eastern bank of the Dnipro River and after the victory in Kherson, Kyiv has identified it as their next primary target. On the other hand, Denis Pushilin, the Russian-installed administrator of the portion controlled by Moscow, told the Russian state-owned news agency RIA that Russia has already taken over half of Donetsk. It was one of the regions which Russia officially annexed following a series of referendums. Also read | European Parliament removes Kaili as vice-president after Qatar allegations “A little more than 50% of the territory of the Donetsk People’s Republic has been liberated.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine will need more than $800 million to repair the key energy infrastructure damaged by Russian missile strikes. During his address at an international aid event in Paris, he urged all G7 leaders to ensure that Ukrainians do not have to spend the winter without any electricity.

Ukrainian forces damage key bridge near Melitopol, Russian authorities claim

Veteran US talk show host David Letterman has interviewed almost all prominent celebrities and leaders of the world but his latest is unique in more ways than one.&nbsp; 
 
In October, the host travelled to Kyiv to interview Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the area which Letterman claimed as the 'safest part of the city' - a subway platform 300 feet (90 meters) below ground.&nbsp; 
 
Zelensky was the latest guest on Letterman's popular Netflix show, 'My Next Guest'.&nbsp;

A small audience watched in the semi-dark as subway trains rumbled past. At one point a siren went off. Letterman looked alarmed, but no one else reacted. What did that indicate, he asked.

"Unfortunately it means that war has become a habit," said Zelenskiy. "Many Ukrainians have gotten used to it... To me sirens are an indicator that war is not over... this is a reminder that somewhere, someone is giving up their life for yours."

In February, Russia sent troops into Ukraine in what it called a "special operation" to degrade its southern neighbour's military capabilities and root out people it calls dangerous nationalists. Ukraine and the West say the war is an unprovoked act of aggression.

For the special episode, Letterman also spoke with Ukraine's railways head and even visited a comedy club. He discussed with Zelenskiy, a former comedian, the importance of humour in dark times, and chatted with him about his family. Zelensky said he could only breathe because he was speaking to his wife and children.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Uq_Dkqbx2ik" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> 
 
"Children know much more about the war than we do. My son is 9 years old. He knows the names of all the weapons... Each of us makes sacrifices for our country. Our children sacrificed their childhood," he said. 
 
Letterman's Netflix show 'My Next Guest Needs No Introduction' has in the past featured prominent celebrities including former US President Barack Obama, rapper Jay-Z, Shah Rukh Khan, Ellen Degeners and singer Billie Eilish. 
'My Next Guest... with David Letterman and Volodymyr Zelenskiy' is streaming on Netflix.

&nbsp;

Veteran US talk show host David Letterman has interviewed almost all prominent celebrities and leaders of the world but his latest is unique in more ways than one.

Veteran US talk show host David Letterman has interviewed almost all prominent celebrities and leaders of the world but his latest is unique in more ways than one. In October, the host travelled to Kyiv to interview Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the area which Letterman claimed as the 'safest part of the city' - a subway platform 300 feet (90 meters) below ground. Zelensky was the latest guest on Letterman's popular Netflix show, 'My Next Guest'. A small audience watched in the semi-dark as subway trains rumbled past. At one point a siren went off. Letterman looked alarmed, but no one else reacted. What did that indicate, he asked. "Unfortunately it means that war has become a habit," said Zelenskiy. "Many Ukrainians have gotten used to it... To me sirens are an indicator that war is not over... this is a reminder that somewhere, someone is giving up their life for yours." In February, Russia sent troops into Ukraine in what it called a "special operation" to degrade its southern neighbour's military capabilities and root out people it calls dangerous nationalists. Ukraine and the West say the war is an unprovoked act of aggression. For the special episode, Letterman also spoke with Ukraine's railways head and even visited a comedy club. He discussed with Zelenskiy, a former comedian, the importance of humour in dark times, and chatted with him about his family. Zelensky said he could only breathe because he was speaking to his wife and children. "Children know much more about the war than we do. My son is 9 years old. He knows the names of all the weapons... Each of us makes sacrifices for our country. Our children sacrificed their childhood," he said. Letterman's Netflix show 'My Next Guest Needs No Introduction' has in the past featured prominent celebrities including former US President Barack Obama, rapper Jay-Z, Shah Rukh Khan, Ellen Degeners and singer Billie Eilish. 'My Next Guest... with David Letterman and Volodymyr Zelenskiy' is streaming on Netflix.

David Letterman interviews Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv subway 300 feet below the ground

Putin will not hold a year-end press conference for the first time in at least a decade. Russian President usually uses these conferences to enhance his reputation. Know here why he will not be holding this year-end press conference.

Why is Putin not holding year-end press conference for the first time in a decade?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;said on Tuesday that the country will need emergency aid to its energy sector in excess of $843 million. Due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, the power grids and key energy infrastructures in Ukraine have suffered quite a bit resulting in major blackouts and power failures. As a result, over 10 million people in Ukraine may have to spend the winters without any electricity and even the World Health Organisation (WHO) believes that it can turn “deadly” for them.&nbsp;

During his address through a video link at an international aid conference in Paris, Zelensky said that Ukraine will need new transformers as well as generators along with financial support.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-lac-intrusion-attempt-set-to-rock-indian-parliament-542512">After India's intervention shunned PLA, Beijing calls situation 'stable'</a>

"Of course, it is a very high amount, but the cost is less than the cost of a potential blackout. I hope that decisions will be made accordingly," the Ukrainian President said according to Reuters. &nbsp;

"Because of the destruction of our power plants by terror attacks we will need to use more gas this winter than expected," he added during his address in front of various G7 leaders.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Since the start of the conflict in February, Ukraine stopped its connection to the Russian grid and the country is currently linked with the European power network. &nbsp;However, with the European Union facing a major energy crisis in recent times, Ukraine urged support in order to avoid a catastrophic winter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/discovery-of-new-debris-suggests-mh370-might-have-been-deliberately-downed-says-report-542606">Debris suggests MH370 might have been deliberately downed, says report</a>

"Generators have become as necessary as armoured vehicles and bullet-proof jackets," Zelensky said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron extended his support to Ukraine and said that his government intended to help "the Ukrainian people to get through this winter".&nbsp;

"Very concretely, these are commitments to deliver generators, help repair infrastructure, deliver LEDs (light-emitting&nbsp;diodes) for lighting," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that the country will need emergency aid to its energy sector in excess of $843 million. Due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, the power grids and key energy infrastructures in Ukraine have suffered quite a bit resulting in major blackouts and power failures.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that the country will need emergency aid to its energy sector in excess of $843 million. Due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, the power grids and key energy infrastructures in Ukraine have suffered quite a bit resulting in major blackouts and power failures. As a result, over 10 million people in Ukraine may have to spend the winters without any electricity and even the World Health Organisation (WHO) believes that it can turn “deadly” for them. During his address through a video link at an international aid conference in Paris, Zelensky said that Ukraine will need new transformers as well as generators along with financial support. Also read | After India's intervention shunned PLA, Beijing calls situation 'stable' "Of course, it is a very high amount, but the cost is less than the cost of a potential blackout. I hope that decisions will be made accordingly," the Ukrainian President said according to Reuters. "Because of the destruction of our power plants by terror attacks we will need to use more gas this winter than expected," he added during his address in front of various G7 leaders. Since the start of the conflict in February, Ukraine stopped its connection to the Russian grid and the country is currently linked with the European power network. However, with the European Union facing a major energy crisis in recent times, Ukraine urged support in order to avoid a catastrophic winter. Also read | Debris suggests MH370 might have been deliberately downed, says report "Generators have become as necessary as armoured vehicles and bullet-proof jackets," Zelensky said. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron extended his support to Ukraine and said that his government intended to help "the Ukrainian people to get through this winter". "Very concretely, these are commitments to deliver generators, help repair infrastructure, deliver LEDs (light-emitting diodes) for lighting," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine needs more than $800 million in energy sector aid, says Volodymyr Zelensky

The Ukraine war is on relentlessly. Ukraine's defense minister Alexi Reznikov says Ukrainian forces will resume active counter-offensive once the ground freezes, become more solid to pass equipment.

War in Ukraine | Reznikov: Actions to resume after ground becomes firmer

US airforce was planning to supply Ukraine with the older version of a predator drone. The supply took time due to Pentagon's concern over sensitive technology.

US: Pentagon unsure about sending reaper drones to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations on Monday (December 12) that Ukraine needs "about two billion cubic meters" of gas to get through the winter. Speaking via a video link, he also urged G7 to supply more weapons to Ukraine including "modern tanks" and "rocket artillery and more long-range missiles".

"Unfortunately, Russia still has the advantage in artillery and missiles. This is a fact. These capabilities of the occupying army are the ones to fuel the Kremlin's arrogance," Zelensky said.

"The terror against our power plants forced us to use more gas than expected. This is why we need additional support over this particular winter," he stressed.

Watch | War in Ukraine | Reznikov: Actions to resume after ground becomes firmer

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Russia attacked Ukraine in February this year. After gaining ground in initial months of the fighting, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks resulting in Ukrainian forces gaining back control of large swathes of land.

Russia has then scaled up bombarding Ukraine's energy infrastructure just when winter has begun to set in, causing many regions of the country to suffer blackouts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-is-jailing-beating-up-own-soldiers-who-refuse-to-fight-in-ukraine-report-542465">Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report</a>

On Monday, Zelensky invited the G7 industrialised nations "as well as other conscientious countries" to "show your leadership".

The Ukrainian leader also urged Russia "to take a concrete and meaningful step towards a diplomatic settlement".&nbsp;

Zelensky called on "the occupier" Moscow to leave Ukrainian territory by Christmas.

"The one who brought the war upon us has to take it away."

(With inputs from agencies)

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WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations on Monday (December 12) that Ukraine needs "about two billion cubic meters" of gas to get through the winter.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told G7 nations on Monday (December 12) that Ukraine needs "about two billion cubic meters" of gas to get through the winter. Speaking via a video link, he also urged G7 to supply more weapons to Ukraine including "modern tanks" and "rocket artillery and more long-range missiles". "Unfortunately, Russia still has the advantage in artillery and missiles. This is a fact. These capabilities of the occupying army are the ones to fuel the Kremlin's arrogance," Zelensky said. "The terror against our power plants forced us to use more gas than expected. This is why we need additional support over this particular winter," he stressed. Watch | War in Ukraine | Reznikov: Actions to resume after ground becomes firmer × Russia attacked Ukraine in February this year. After gaining ground in initial months of the fighting, Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of Ukrainian counterattacks resulting in Ukrainian forces gaining back control of large swathes of land. Russia has then scaled up bombarding Ukraine's energy infrastructure just when winter has begun to set in, causing many regions of the country to suffer blackouts. Also Read | Russia is jailing, beating up own soldiers who refuse to fight in Ukraine: Report On Monday, Zelensky invited the G7 industrialised nations "as well as other conscientious countries" to "show your leadership". The Ukrainian leader also urged Russia "to take a concrete and meaningful step towards a diplomatic settlement". Zelensky called on "the occupier" Moscow to leave Ukrainian territory by Christmas. "The one who brought the war upon us has to take it away." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine needs gas and more weapons, Zelensky tells G7 nations

As Russia's war in Ukraine rages on, some Ukrainians are facing uncertainty in the UK as a six month commitment for hosts of refugees ends and the struggle to find affordable housing begins.

First phase of UK's Ukrainian refugees hosting scheme to get over

On the ninth month of unwavering war between Russia and Ukraine, freezing temperatures have seized power of weaponry as Ukraine claims that Russia has stopped using Iranian-made drones because they failed to operate in cold temperature.

Russia Ukraine War: Cold temperatures damage Iranian-made drones

Ukraine says that over 1.5 million people were without power in Odessa after coming under an attack by the Russian forces. The Region's Energy Authority warned that repairs would take weeks or perhaps even up to three months.

Russia-Ukraine War: Russian 'kamikaze' drone strikes knocks out power

In the latest, authorities that support Russia claimed that on Saturday night, Ukraine assaulted the city of seized Melitopol in the southeast of the nation (December 10). Multiple explosions have reportedly been detected in the city's strategically positioned neighbourhood, according to some of the Moscow-installed authorities. In other news,&nbsp;The first lunar rover from the United Arab Emirates and a toy-like Japanese robot that is designed to roll around in space&nbsp;in the grey dust were launched on board a SpaceX rocket by a Tokyo business on Sunday&nbsp;

Click on the headlined to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-strikes-hit-russian-occupied-regions-two-killed-and-several-injured-542055">Russia-Ukraine war: Missiles strike Russian-occupied regions, two killed and several injured</a>

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Pro-Russian authorities said that Ukraine attacked occupied Melitopol in the country's southeast on Saturday evening (December 10). Some of the Moscow-installed authorities said that multiple explosions have been reported in the strategically located city.&nbsp;

Reports mentioned several exiled Ukrainian authorities as saying that blasts were also reported in Donetsk People's Republic, Crimea, including at&nbsp;Russian military barracks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japanese-companys-lander-heads-for-the-moon-with-uae-rover-542041">Japanese company's lander heads for the moon with UAE rover on SpaceX rocket</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8ceb18c-7f1a-4383-a629-539d0223deb2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AP22345286629793-1-e1670748002311-640x400.jpg" />

The first lunar rover from the United Arab Emirates and a toy-like Japanese robot that is designed to roll around in space&nbsp;in the grey dust were launched on board a SpaceX rocket by a Tokyo business on Sunday. The lander's journey to the moon, together with its associated experiments, will take about five months. For financial reasons and to provide greater capacity for freight, the company&nbsp;ispace Inc. built its craft to utilise less fuel. Therefore, it is travelling 1 million miles (1.6 million kilometres) from Earth before turning around and colliding with the moon at the end of April.

Peru's President Boluarte names cabinet, makes ministers take pledge against corruption

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Peru's President Dina Boluarte announced the cabinet on Saturday and asked every minister to take the anti-corruption pledge.&nbsp;The president asked all the 17 ministers to swear that they will deliver their duties “loyally and faithfully without committing acts of corruption.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-blue-to-relaunch-ios-users-will-have-to-pay-more-than-8-541948">Twitter to relaunch blue tick at $8, but iOS users will have to pay $11</a>

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After several false starts, Twitter's off-again, on-again subscription service is all set to get yet another launch next week. The service is set to get more expensive for iOS users and will also include a system for account authentication on the platform.

The firm announced that customers may sign up for the updated service, which would cost $8 per month over the web but $11 per month through Apple iOS.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-telstra-suffers-privacy-breach-132000-customers-affected-542071">Australia: Telstra suffers privacy breach, 132,000 customers affected in data leak</a>

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The largest telecom company in Australia, Telstra Corp Ltd, reported on Sunday that an internal error that leaked customer information affected 132,000 subscribers. According to Telstra, which has 18.8 million customer accounts, or 75 per cent of Australia's population, the information was made public owing to "a misalignment of databases," according to an internal review.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vp-of-the-european-parliament-eva-kaili-among-four-detained-in-graft-probe-542093">VP of European Parliament Eva Kaili among four detained in graft probe</a>

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In a Belgian investigation into alleged corruption in the European Parliament linked to Qatar, four suspects have been charged and held in custody, according to prosecutors.

The four were not named by the federal prosecutor's office, but a legal source confirmed to AFP that they included Eva Kaili, a Greek socialist MEP and one of the vice presidents of the parliament.

WATCH | Iran anti-Hijab protests: Custodial death sparks nationwide protests

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WATCH | Anti-Hijab protests in Iran: Over 450 protesters including 63 children killed, say reports

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In the latest, authorities that support Russia claimed that on Saturday night, Ukraine assaulted the city of seized Melitopol in the southeast of the nation (December 10).

In the latest, authorities that support Russia claimed that on Saturday night, Ukraine assaulted the city of seized Melitopol in the southeast of the nation (December 10). Multiple explosions have reportedly been detected in the city's strategically positioned neighbourhood, according to some of the Moscow-installed authorities. In other news, The first lunar rover from the United Arab Emirates and a toy-like Japanese robot that is designed to roll around in space in the grey dust were launched on board a SpaceX rocket by a Tokyo business on Sunday Click on the headlined to read more. Russia-Ukraine war: Missiles strike Russian-occupied regions, two killed and several injured Pro-Russian authorities said that Ukraine attacked occupied Melitopol in the country's southeast on Saturday evening (December 10). Some of the Moscow-installed authorities said that multiple explosions have been reported in the strategically located city. Reports mentioned several exiled Ukrainian authorities as saying that blasts were also reported in Donetsk People's Republic, Crimea, including at Russian military barracks. Japanese company's lander heads for the moon with UAE rover on SpaceX rocket The first lunar rover from the United Arab Emirates and a toy-like Japanese robot that is designed to roll around in space in the grey dust were launched on board a SpaceX rocket by a Tokyo business on Sunday. The lander's journey to the moon, together with its associated experiments, will take about five months. For financial reasons and to provide greater capacity for freight, the company ispace Inc. built its craft to utilise less fuel. Therefore, it is travelling 1 million miles (1.6 million kilometres) from Earth before turning around and colliding with the moon at the end of April. Peru's President Boluarte names cabinet, makes ministers take pledge against corruption Peru's President Dina Boluarte announced the cabinet on Saturday and asked every minister to take the anti-corruption pledge. The president asked all the 17 ministers to swear that they will deliver their duties “loyally and faithfully without committing acts of corruption.” Twitter to relaunch blue tick at $8, but iOS users will have to pay $11 After several false starts, Twitter's off-again, on-again subscription service is all set to get yet another launch next week. The service is set to get more expensive for iOS users and will also include a system for account authentication on the platform. The firm announced that customers may sign up for the updated service, which would cost $8 per month over the web but $11 per month through Apple iOS. Australia: Telstra suffers privacy breach, 132,000 customers affected in data leak The largest telecom company in Australia, Telstra Corp Ltd, reported on Sunday that an internal error that leaked customer information affected 132,000 subscribers. According to Telstra, which has 18.8 million customer accounts, or 75 per cent of Australia's population, the information was made public owing to "a misalignment of databases," according to an internal review. VP of European Parliament Eva Kaili among four detained in graft probe In a Belgian investigation into alleged corruption in the European Parliament linked to Qatar, four suspects have been charged and held in custody, according to prosecutors. The four were not named by the federal prosecutor's office, but a legal source confirmed to AFP that they included Eva Kaili, a Greek socialist MEP and one of the vice presidents of the parliament. WATCH | Iran anti-Hijab protests: Custodial death sparks nationwide protests WATCH | Anti-Hijab protests in Iran: Over 450 protesters including 63 children killed, say reports WATCH | Pakistan: Political crisis continue; former PM Imran Khan's gives ultimatum to ruling coalition

Top 10 world news: Missiles strike Russian-occupied regions, Peru's president names cabinet, & more

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States has announced new aid for Kyiv. $275 million will be sent to strengthen air defences.

Russia-Ukraine war: Washington announces new aid for Kyiv

Is Russia changing its nuclear doctrine amid the ongoing Ukraine war President Putin mulls adopting a 'Washington-like' concept. In this video, have a look at the US & its policy of 'calculated ambiguity'.

Is Russia changing its nuclear doctrine? Putin mulls adopting a 'Washington-like' concept

Ukraine will soon get a USD 275 million military aid package from the US. The package would enable Ukraine to acquire new capabilities to defeat drones and strengthen air defenses

As per reports, the package could be announced as early as Friday (December 9).

It is also expected that the Pentagon may include rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers made by Lockheed Martin Corp, 155mm ammunition, Humvee military vehicles and generators.

The $275 million will be covered by Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) which allows the United States to transfer defence articles and services from stocks quickly without congressional approval in response to an emergency.

Russia's surge in missile strikes in Ukraine is partly designed to exhaust Kyiv's supplies of air defences and achieve dominance of the skies above the country, a senior Pentagon official said in November.

To counter these attacks, the United States has sent sophisticated anti-aircraft NASAMS systems to Ukraine which have been running for a few weeks.

Washington previously announced it was sending four Avenger short-range air defense systems that use Stinger missiles, made by Raytheon Technologies Corp, and HAWK interceptor missiles.

US allies have also been sending air defence systems.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Ukraine will soon get a USD 275 million military aid package from the US. The package would enable Ukraine to acquire new capabilities to defeat drones and strengthen air defenses As per reports, the package could be announced as early as Friday (December 9).

Ukraine will soon get a USD 275 million military aid package from the US. The package would enable Ukraine to acquire new capabilities to defeat drones and strengthen air defenses As per reports, the package could be announced as early as Friday (December 9). It is also expected that the Pentagon may include rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers made by Lockheed Martin Corp, 155mm ammunition, Humvee military vehicles and generators. The $275 million will be covered by Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) which allows the United States to transfer defence articles and services from stocks quickly without congressional approval in response to an emergency. Russia's surge in missile strikes in Ukraine is partly designed to exhaust Kyiv's supplies of air defences and achieve dominance of the skies above the country, a senior Pentagon official said in November. To counter these attacks, the United States has sent sophisticated anti-aircraft NASAMS systems to Ukraine which have been running for a few weeks. Washington previously announced it was sending four Avenger short-range air defense systems that use Stinger missiles, made by Raytheon Technologies Corp, and HAWK interceptor missiles. US allies have also been sending air defence systems. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine to soon get $275 million military aid package from US

The war in Ukraine has dragged on for almost 10 months now and Ukraine has managed to recapture some territory. For a while now, it has been holding the Russian war machine at bay, that's in no small part, thanks to the weapons that the allies have supplied.

WION Fineprint: How long can the West keep supplying 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.

Russia has installed several rocket launchers at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, according to Ukrainian officials. Ukrainian nuclear company Energoatom said in an official statement that the Russian military,&nbsp;currently stationed inside the atomic power plant, has installed six Grad rocket launchers near the six reactors which are currently not functional. The statement strongly criticised the action and said that it is "violating conditions for nuclear and radiation safety.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-lawmakers-hail-bout-griner-prisoner-swap-as-putins-win-state-media-541528">Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner swap as Putin’s ‘win’, capitulation by US</a>

While the claim was backed by several Ukrainian ministers, no independent verification was conducted. According to official data, the Grad rocket launchers are capable of firing rockets within a range of 40 kilometres. As a result, one rocket from the power plant will be able to hit targets on the other side of the Dnieper river along with the cities of Nikopol and Marhanets in the region.

Earlier, the United Nations nuclear watchdog decided to assign inspectors to the plant who were tasked with monitoring the damage inflected by the ongoing conflict. Since the deployment of the agents, Ukraine has raised multiple accusations against Russia when it comes to storing weapons.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has insisted that the conflict in Ukraine can be “a long process” and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Ukraine needs to agree to Russia’s demands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-fire-reported-in-a-suburban-shopping-centre-in-moscow-541468">One dead in massive shopping centre fire in Moscow, arson suspected</a>

"(Volodymyr) Zelensky&nbsp;knows when it may end. It may end tomorrow if he wishes so.”

Earlier, Russia did not rule out the use of nuclear weapons in the conflict but also made it clear that they will be used only as a “defensive option”.

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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. Russia has installed several rocket launchers at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, according to Ukrainian officials. Ukrainian nuclear company Energoatom said in an official statement that the Russian military, currently stationed inside the atomic power plant, has installed six Grad rocket launchers near the six reactors which are currently not functional. The statement strongly criticised the action and said that it is "violating conditions for nuclear and radiation safety.” Also read | Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner swap as Putin’s ‘win’, capitulation by US While the claim was backed by several Ukrainian ministers, no independent verification was conducted. According to official data, the Grad rocket launchers are capable of firing rockets within a range of 40 kilometres. As a result, one rocket from the power plant will be able to hit targets on the other side of the Dnieper river along with the cities of Nikopol and Marhanets in the region. Earlier, the United Nations nuclear watchdog decided to assign inspectors to the plant who were tasked with monitoring the damage inflected by the ongoing conflict. Since the deployment of the agents, Ukraine has raised multiple accusations against Russia when it comes to storing weapons. Russian President Vladimir Putin has insisted that the conflict in Ukraine can be “a long process” and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Ukraine needs to agree to Russia’s demands. Also read | One dead in massive shopping centre fire in Moscow, arson suspected "(Volodymyr) Zelensky knows when it may end. It may end tomorrow if he wishes so.” Earlier, Russia did not rule out the use of nuclear weapons in the conflict but also made it clear that they will be used only as a “defensive option”.

Ukraine accuses Russia of storing rocket launchers at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

TIME Magazine names Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky 'Person of the Year'. Has Zelensky done enough to deserve the title? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: TIME names Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky 'Person of the Year'

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's new video went viral on Twitter in which the allegedly intoxicated president is seen talking about the Russia-Ukraine war. A Twitter user named Dmitri posted the video with the caption "Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue". &nbsp;

Putin, while speaking to state awards recipients, is seen as saying, “All the nonsense, the informational stand-off, the informational throw-ins, all the fakes, they must stand aside. They should not prevent us from fulfilling our duty to our people. &nbsp;And you do not need to be particularly well-versed in this informational confrontation to understand what is actually going on."

“There is a lot of noise now about our strikes against the energy infrastructure of our neighbour country. Yes, we are doing that but who started it? Who struck the Crimean Bridge? Who blew up the power lines of the Kursk Nuclear Power Station? Who is not providing water to Donetsk? Not providing water to a city with a population of one million is an act of genocide. No one said a word about it anywhere at all. Complete silence. &nbsp;Just as we make a move, do something in response, noise and crackle start for the whole universe. This will not prevent us from completing military objectives," he adds, while swaying from side to side. &nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue because "they started first by attacking the Crimean bridge" <a href="https://t.co/fQeRuNo4Pu">pic.twitter.com/fQeRuNo4Pu</a>
— Dmitri (@wartranslated) <a href="https://twitter.com/wartranslated/status/1600847388242894848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The video which garnered more than 2.5 million views on the micro-blogging site, started speculations over whether the president was drunk while speaking.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russia-of-storing-rocket-launchers-at-nuclear-power-plant-541598">Ukraine accuses Russia of storing rocket launchers at nuclear power plant</a>

Swedish economist Anders Åslund, who worked as an adviser to the governments of Russia and Ukraine in the 1990s, said that this is a very unusual behaviour of Putin, who is known for controlled abstinence. &nbsp;

“This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting &amp; promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk &amp; weak," Åslund tweeted.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting &amp; promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk &amp; weak. <a href="https://t.co/h2Q1EevJqR">https://t.co/h2Q1EevJqR</a>
— Anders Åslund (@anders_aslund) <a href="https://twitter.com/anders_aslund/status/1600897228263989249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Moscow-based journalist Anna Nemtsova tweeted that this is Putin's first alleged intoxication during his tenure as the president.&nbsp;

"We've seen many staged photo&amp;video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs, Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin's own act," the journalist tweeted.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We’ve seen many staged photo&amp;video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs,Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin’s own act <a href="https://t.co/tMIOxmSdd6">https://t.co/tMIOxmSdd6</a>
— Anna Nemtsova (@annanemtsova) <a href="https://twitter.com/annanemtsova/status/1600880037661753345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-conduct-more-strikes-on-ukrainian-energy-infrastructure-says-vladimir-putin-541341">Russia to conduct more strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, says Vladimir Putin</a>

CBC journalist Evan Dyer, meanwhile, tweeted it is "very strange to see Putin drunk in public." "Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin....But no doubt, he's plastered here," Dyer tweeted.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Very strange to see Putin drunk in public. Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin. A big part of his appeal, especially to long-suffering Russian woman. But no doubt, he’s plastered here. <a href="https://t.co/jGHhEFkSLK">https://t.co/jGHhEFkSLK</a>
— Evan Dyer (@EvanDyerCBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/EvanDyerCBC/status/1600882876655931392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

New Lines Magazine Global Editor Amie Ferris-Rotman, reacting over the viral video, tweeted, "Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). 
 
Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/yysOktAEGh">https://t.co/yysOktAEGh</a>
— Amie Ferris-Rotman (@Amie_FR) <a href="https://twitter.com/Amie_FR/status/1600873117571686401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Over the years, Putin is known to follow a strict diet and refrain from vices like alcohol and drugs. Russia's state media outlet Tass, in 2019, reported that the president does not approve smoking of cigarettes "because he advocates a healthy lifestyle." He has also criticised the drinking culture of Russia in the past, stating about receiving German beer bottles from Germany's former Chancellor Angela Merkel.&nbsp;

<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>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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's new video went viral on Twitter in which the allegedly intoxicated president is seen talking about the Russia-Ukraine war. A Twitter user named Dmitri posted the video with the caption "Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue". Putin, while speaking to state awards recipients, is seen as saying, “All the nonsense, the informational stand-off, the informational throw-ins, all the fakes, they must stand aside. They should not prevent us from fulfilling our duty to our people. And you do not need to be particularly well-versed in this informational confrontation to understand what is actually going on." “There is a lot of noise now about our strikes against the energy infrastructure of our neighbour country. Yes, we are doing that but who started it? Who struck the Crimean Bridge? Who blew up the power lines of the Kursk Nuclear Power Station? Who is not providing water to Donetsk? Not providing water to a city with a population of one million is an act of genocide. No one said a word about it anywhere at all. Complete silence. Just as we make a move, do something in response, noise and crackle start for the whole universe. This will not prevent us from completing military objectives," he adds, while swaying from side to side. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Drunk putin explains why strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure will continue because "they started first by attacking the Crimean bridge" pic.twitter.com/fQeRuNo4Pu — Dmitri (@wartranslated) December 8, 2022 The video which garnered more than 2.5 million views on the micro-blogging site, started speculations over whether the president was drunk while speaking. ALSO READ| Ukraine accuses Russia of storing rocket launchers at nuclear power plant Swedish economist Anders Åslund, who worked as an adviser to the governments of Russia and Ukraine in the 1990s, said that this is a very unusual behaviour of Putin, who is known for controlled abstinence. “This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting & promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk & weak," Åslund tweeted. This is the first time that I have seen Putin seeming drunk in any context. He talks nonsense as usual, but he seems to realize that he is a loser. Very interesting & promising. All Russians will see that he is drunk & weak. https://t.co/h2Q1EevJqR — Anders Åslund (@anders_aslund) December 8, 2022 Meanwhile, Moscow-based journalist Anna Nemtsova tweeted that this is Putin's first alleged intoxication during his tenure as the president. "We've seen many staged photo&video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs, Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin's own act," the journalist tweeted. We’ve seen many staged photo&video shoots in 20 Years including half-naked Putin on a horse or diving for some Greek jugs,Putin flying w migratory birds or kissing a boy on the stomach but drunk speeches about Russian missiles striking neighbouring state must be Putin’s own act https://t.co/tMIOxmSdd6 — Anna Nemtsova (@annanemtsova) December 8, 2022 ALSO READ| Russia to conduct more strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, says Vladimir Putin CBC journalist Evan Dyer, meanwhile, tweeted it is "very strange to see Putin drunk in public." "Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin....But no doubt, he's plastered here," Dyer tweeted. Very strange to see Putin drunk in public. Being sober in a hard-drinking country is central to his public image. It was the main contrast he drew between himself and Yeltsin. A big part of his appeal, especially to long-suffering Russian woman. But no doubt, he’s plastered here. https://t.co/jGHhEFkSLK — Evan Dyer (@EvanDyerCBC) December 8, 2022 New Lines Magazine Global Editor Amie Ferris-Rotman, reacting over the viral video, tweeted, "Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine." Woah. Never seen Putin drunk before, or even heard of him getting drunk (he used to boast he was teetotal). Things must be going very wrong in Ukraine. https://t.co/yysOktAEGh — Amie Ferris-Rotman (@Amie_FR) December 8, 2022 Over the years, Putin is known to follow a strict diet and refrain from vices like alcohol and drugs. Russia's state media outlet Tass, in 2019, reported that the president does not approve smoking of cigarettes "because he advocates a healthy lifestyle." He has also criticised the drinking culture of Russia in the past, stating about receiving German beer bottles from Germany's former Chancellor Angela Merkel. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH: Visibly drunk Putin's video claiming 'You started it - not us' goes viral

Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko has predicted an 'apocalypse' scenario this winter in light of continued Russian air strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. But he added that there was no need for evacuation right now, though the residents should be ready for it.

"Kyiv might lose power, water, and heat supply. The apocalypse might happen, like in Hollywood films, when it's not possible to live in homes considering the low temperature," Mayor Vitali Klitschko told Reuters in an interview.

"But we are fighting and doing everything we can to make sure that this does not happen," the former boxer went on to say, raising his booming voice to drive the point home.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in the early months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to withdraw from large swathes of land in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive.

Watch | Russia releases footage showing Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus

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Russia has since then launched missile and air attacks on Ukraine's energy and other infrastructure.&nbsp;

The current situation in Ukraine's capital is grim. Kyiv lacks enough heated shelters to take in all 3.6 million residents in the event of complete&nbsp;outages.

"We have prepared nearly 500 autonomous heating hubs at present... but for a city of 3 million, 500 points is nothing," he said.

Klitschko, a former world heavyweight boxing champion before entering politics, painted a picture of a harsh future ahead for Ukraine's more than 1,500-year-old capital.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fighting-in-ukraine-might-be-a-long-process-says-russian-president-vladimir-putin-541025">Fighting in Ukraine ‘might be a long process’, says Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

He sketched out one possible scenario in which the city could be left without central heating until spring at a time when temperatures can fall as low as -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit).

"If electricity supply continues to be absent while outside temperatures remain low, we will unfortunately be forced to drain water from buildings," he said.

"Otherwise the water can freeze and break the entire water supply network, and buildings will then be totally unfit for further use."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-named-time-magazines-person-of-the-year-541006">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named TIME magazine's 'Person of the Year'</a>

Klitschko urged residents to prepare emergency supplies of food and water, as well as to have clothes and documents ready for a quick departure if the heating supply is turned off.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko has predicted an 'apocalypse' scenario this winter in light of continued Russian air strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. But he added that there was no need for evacuation right now, though the residents should be ready for it.

Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko has predicted an 'apocalypse' scenario this winter in light of continued Russian air strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. But he added that there was no need for evacuation right now, though the residents should be ready for it. "Kyiv might lose power, water, and heat supply. The apocalypse might happen, like in Hollywood films, when it's not possible to live in homes considering the low temperature," Mayor Vitali Klitschko told Reuters in an interview. "But we are fighting and doing everything we can to make sure that this does not happen," the former boxer went on to say, raising his booming voice to drive the point home. Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year. After sustained gains in the early months of the conflict, the Russian forces had to withdraw from large swathes of land in the face of Ukrainian counteroffensive. Watch | Russia releases footage showing Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus × Russia has since then launched missile and air attacks on Ukraine's energy and other infrastructure. The current situation in Ukraine's capital is grim. Kyiv lacks enough heated shelters to take in all 3.6 million residents in the event of complete outages. "We have prepared nearly 500 autonomous heating hubs at present... but for a city of 3 million, 500 points is nothing," he said. Klitschko, a former world heavyweight boxing champion before entering politics, painted a picture of a harsh future ahead for Ukraine's more than 1,500-year-old capital. Also Read | Fighting in Ukraine ‘might be a long process’, says Russian President Vladimir Putin He sketched out one possible scenario in which the city could be left without central heating until spring at a time when temperatures can fall as low as -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit). "If electricity supply continues to be absent while outside temperatures remain low, we will unfortunately be forced to drain water from buildings," he said. "Otherwise the water can freeze and break the entire water supply network, and buildings will then be totally unfit for further use." Also Read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named TIME magazine's 'Person of the Year' Klitschko urged residents to prepare emergency supplies of food and water, as well as to have clothes and documents ready for a quick departure if the heating supply is turned off. (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 ×

Kyiv mayor predicts 'apocalypse' in winter, but appeals citizens to not panic

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that the threat of a nuclear war was rising. However, he insisted that the country hasn't "gone mad" and they will not use the weapons first. He further said&nbsp;that the “military operation” in Ukraine will continue for a long time but added that additional soldiers will not be mobilised at this moment.

"Such a threat is growing, it would be wrong to hide it," Putin warned during&nbsp;a televised annual session of his Human Rights Council.

"We have not gone mad, we are aware of what nuclear weapons are," he said.&nbsp;"We aren't about to run around the world brandishing this weapon like a razor."

He also slammed the US's nuclear strategy, saying that the US had&nbsp;placed its nuclear weapons on foreign territories.&nbsp;

"We do not have nuclear weapons, including tactical ones, on the territory of other countries, but the Americans do - in Turkey, and in a number of other European countries," he said.

"As for the duration of the special military operation, well, of course, this can be a long process," Putin said.

At the meet, Putin accused the western countries of destroying Russia’s global image and representing it as "a second-class country that has no right to exist at all".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-police-detain-25-far-right-extremists-seeking-to-overthrow-state-540903">Former right-wing MP among 25 detained in Germany for plot to overthrow state</a>

"This is what we are dealing with. There can be only one answer from our side - a consistent struggle for our national interests. We will do just that. And let no one count on anything else."

While referring to the second round of militarisation, Putin said that no further action is expected as of now after the call for 300,000 reservists in September and October. According to the Russian President, 150,000 were deployed in Ukraine and 77,000 out of them are in combat units.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-set-to-visit-saudi-arabia-on-wednesday-540687">China's President Xi Jinping arrives in Riyadh, to meet Saudi and Arab leaders</a>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said that at least six people were killed, and five injured as Russian missiles struck the Donetsk region. The current missile strikes mainly targeted key infrastructure and power grids with Ukraine facing a prolonged period of power cuts.

"Terrorists attacked the peaceful city of Kurakhove. A market, a bus station, gas stations, and residential buildings came under fire. At least six civilians were killed, five were wounded," he said. 
 
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.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that the threat of a nuclear war was rising. However, he insisted that the country hasn't "gone mad" and they will not use the weapons first.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that the threat of a nuclear war was rising. However, he insisted that the country hasn't "gone mad" and they will not use the weapons first. He further said that the “military operation” in Ukraine will continue for a long time but added that additional soldiers will not be mobilised at this moment. "Such a threat is growing, it would be wrong to hide it," Putin warned during a televised annual session of his Human Rights Council. "We have not gone mad, we are aware of what nuclear weapons are," he said. "We aren't about to run around the world brandishing this weapon like a razor." He also slammed the US's nuclear strategy, saying that the US had placed its nuclear weapons on foreign territories. "We do not have nuclear weapons, including tactical ones, on the territory of other countries, but the Americans do - in Turkey, and in a number of other European countries," he said. "As for the duration of the special military operation, well, of course, this can be a long process," Putin said. At the meet, Putin accused the western countries of destroying Russia’s global image and representing it as "a second-class country that has no right to exist at all". Also read | Former right-wing MP among 25 detained in Germany for plot to overthrow state "This is what we are dealing with. There can be only one answer from our side - a consistent struggle for our national interests. We will do just that. And let no one count on anything else." While referring to the second round of militarisation, Putin said that no further action is expected as of now after the call for 300,000 reservists in September and October. According to the Russian President, 150,000 were deployed in Ukraine and 77,000 out of them are in combat units. Also read | China's President Xi Jinping arrives in Riyadh, to meet Saudi and Arab leaders Meanwhile, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said that at least six people were killed, and five injured as Russian missiles struck the Donetsk region. The current missile strikes mainly targeted key infrastructure and power grids with Ukraine facing a prolonged period of power cuts. "Terrorists attacked the peaceful city of Kurakhove. A market, a bus station, gas stations, and residential buildings came under fire. At least six civilians were killed, five were wounded," he said. 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.

Nuclear risk 'rising', but we will never use the weapons first, says Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has clarified that they would not strike first. He also said that Russia will under no circumstances use them first. Watch more.

"Won't use nukes first," says Russian President Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin made it clear on Thursday that the attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure&nbsp;and power grids will not come down in the coming days. In the past few months, missile strikes have left Ukraine with severely damaged energy infrastructure&nbsp;and as a result, almost 10 million people in and around Kyiv will spend the winter without electricity. Even the World Health Organisation (WHO) expressed concerns about the current situation and said that can easily turn ‘deadly’.&nbsp;

"There's a lot of noise about our strikes on the energy infrastructure of a neighbouring country. Yes, we do that. But who started it?,"&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;said at an awards ceremony in the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-election-results-2022-bjp-records-biggest-ever-win-in-modis-home-turf-541178">BJP registers landslide victory on PM Narendra Modi’s home turf Gujarat</a>

The Russian President also said that other countries should "not interfere with our combat missions".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has expressed its concerns about a potential Ukrainian attack on Russia-controlled Crimea as it claimed to have shot down a drone near a naval base. Drone attacks have become quite common in the region and Moscow has once again expressed its concerns.&nbsp;

"There are certainly risks because the Ukrainian side continues its policy of organising terrorist attacks. But, on the other hand, the information we get indicates that effective countermeasures are being taken," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters according to a report by Associated Press.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-saudi-visit-china-saudi-arabia-sign-34-agreements-worth-30-billion-541177">Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion</a>

The Kremlin also opposed the decision taken by TIME magazine to name Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as the “Person of the Year”. Peskov called the decision “Russophobic” and blamed the western countries and the United States for carrying out a global propaganda campaign against Russia.&nbsp;

"The publication's editorial line does not go beyond the European mainstream, which is absolutely blinkered, anti-Russian, and frantically Russophobic," Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin made it clear on Thursday that the attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and power grids will not come down in the coming days.

Russian President Vladimir Putin made it clear on Thursday that the attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and power grids will not come down in the coming days. In the past few months, missile strikes have left Ukraine with severely damaged energy infrastructure and as a result, almost 10 million people in and around Kyiv will spend the winter without electricity. Even the World Health Organisation (WHO) expressed concerns about the current situation and said that can easily turn ‘deadly’. "There's a lot of noise about our strikes on the energy infrastructure of a neighbouring country. Yes, we do that. But who started it?," Putin said at an awards ceremony in the Kremlin. Also read | BJP registers landslide victory on PM Narendra Modi’s home turf Gujarat The Russian President also said that other countries should "not interfere with our combat missions". Meanwhile, the Kremlin has expressed its concerns about a potential Ukrainian attack on Russia-controlled Crimea as it claimed to have shot down a drone near a naval base. Drone attacks have become quite common in the region and Moscow has once again expressed its concerns. "There are certainly risks because the Ukrainian side continues its policy of organising terrorist attacks. But, on the other hand, the information we get indicates that effective countermeasures are being taken," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters according to a report by Associated Press. Also read | Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion The Kremlin also opposed the decision taken by TIME magazine to name Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as the “Person of the Year”. Peskov called the decision “Russophobic” and blamed the western countries and the United States for carrying out a global propaganda campaign against Russia. "The publication's editorial line does not go beyond the European mainstream, which is absolutely blinkered, anti-Russian, and frantically Russophobic," Peskov told reporters.

Russia to conduct more strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, says Vladimir Putin

The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the commission favoured new sanctions against three additional Russian banks and new export controls and restrictions. Thes, she said, were especially for dual-use goods like key chemicals nerve agents, electronics and IT components.

In a video statement, von der Leyen said Russia "continues to bring death and devastation to Ukraine and is deliberately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, seeking to paralyse the country at the beginning of the winter."

She stressed that eight packages of sanctions already imposed by the EU were already hitting Russia very hard. Now, the bloc intends to raise the pressure on Russia with a ninth package.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slams-russian-loose-talk-on-nuclear-weapons-after-putin-remarks-541057">US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks</a>

Sanctions require the unanimous backing of all the bloc's 27 member states, but most of the measures proposed in the first eight packages were approved by their representative European Council within weeks, though some were dropped or watered down.

(With input from agencies)

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The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list.

The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the commission favoured new sanctions against three additional Russian banks and new export controls and restrictions. Thes, she said, were especially for dual-use goods like key chemicals nerve agents, electronics and IT components. In a video statement, von der Leyen said Russia "continues to bring death and devastation to Ukraine and is deliberately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, seeking to paralyse the country at the beginning of the winter." She stressed that eight packages of sanctions already imposed by the EU were already hitting Russia very hard. Now, the bloc intends to raise the pressure on Russia with a ninth package. Also Read | US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks Sanctions require the unanimous backing of all the bloc's 27 member states, but most of the measures proposed in the first eight packages were approved by their representative European Council within weeks, though some were dropped or watered down. (With input 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 ×

EU proposes more sanctions on Russia, ninth such package 

The United States on Wednesday (December 8) slammed Russia's "loose talk" on nuclear weapons after Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke of what he perceived as rising risk of nuclear war. Putin added that Moscow would not strike first.

Putin, who has previously hinted at use of small "tactical" weapons in his war in Ukraine, said at a Kremlin meeting that "such a threat is rising" but he was evasive on Russia's policy.

"Russia will under no circumstances use them first," Putin said.

"But if it does not use them first under any circumstances, then it will not be the second to use them either, because the possibilities of using them in the event of a nuclear strike against our territory are very limited," Putin said.

Watch | Russia releases footage showing Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus

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Ned Price, US State Department Spokesperson, was asked about Putin's remarks. Choosing to avoid giving a direct reply he said,"We think any loose talk of nuclear weapons is absolutely irresponsible."

Price said that nuclear powers around the world since the Cold War, including China, India, the United States and Russia itself, have been clear that "a nuclear war is something that must never be fought and can never be won."

"We think any other rhetoric -- whether it is nuclear saber-rattling or even raising the specter of the use of tactical nuclear weapons -- is something that is irresponsible," Price said.

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"It is dangerous, and it goes against the spirit of that statement that has been at the core of the nuclear non-proliferation regime since the Cold War," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-mayor-predicts-apocalypse-in-winter-but-appeals-citizens-to-not-panic-541038">Kyiv mayor predicts 'apocalypse' in winter, but appeals citizens to not panic</a>

In his remarks, Putin contrasted Russia with the US. He pointed to USA stationing nuclear weapons in NATO countries in Europe.

"We have not, and are not, transferring our nuclear weapons to anyone, but, of course, we will protect our allies with all the means at our disposal, if necessary," Putin said.

US officials have voiced fear that Russia could use nuclear weapons if it feels routed on the battlefield and could plant a fictitious story to justify its actions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States on Wednesday (December 8) slammed Russia's "loose talk" on nuclear weapons after Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke of what he perceived as rising risk of nuclear war.

The United States on Wednesday (December 8) slammed Russia's "loose talk" on nuclear weapons after Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke of what he perceived as rising risk of nuclear war. Putin added that Moscow would not strike first. Putin, who has previously hinted at use of small "tactical" weapons in his war in Ukraine, said at a Kremlin meeting that "such a threat is rising" but he was evasive on Russia's policy. "Russia will under no circumstances use them first," Putin said. "But if it does not use them first under any circumstances, then it will not be the second to use them either, because the possibilities of using them in the event of a nuclear strike against our territory are very limited," Putin said. Watch | Russia releases footage showing Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus × Ned Price, US State Department Spokesperson, was asked about Putin's remarks. Choosing to avoid giving a direct reply he said,"We think any loose talk of nuclear weapons is absolutely irresponsible." Price said that nuclear powers around the world since the Cold War, including China, India, the United States and Russia itself, have been clear that "a nuclear war is something that must never be fought and can never be won." "We think any other rhetoric -- whether it is nuclear saber-rattling or even raising the specter of the use of tactical nuclear weapons -- is something that is irresponsible," Price said. Also Read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named TIME magazine's 'Person of the Year' "It is dangerous, and it goes against the spirit of that statement that has been at the core of the nuclear non-proliferation regime since the Cold War," he said. Also Read | Kyiv mayor predicts 'apocalypse' in winter, but appeals citizens to not panic In his remarks, Putin contrasted Russia with the US. He pointed to USA stationing nuclear weapons in NATO countries in Europe. "We have not, and are not, transferring our nuclear weapons to anyone, but, of course, we will protect our allies with all the means at our disposal, if necessary," Putin said. US officials have voiced fear that Russia could use nuclear weapons if it feels routed on the battlefield and could plant a fictitious story to justify its actions. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year on Wednesday for leading his country during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky has achieved global fame for his role in Ukraine’s defence against Russia and in the past year, he has become a massive global figure for his speeches and appearances at major summits and events around the world. Zelensky was previously a comedian and actor before becoming President back in 2019.

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The other personalities and entities in the running along with Zelensky were United States Supreme Court, politician Liz Cheney and last year’s winner – Tesla and Twitter CEO Elon Musk.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February earlier this year, Zelensky was offered asylum by multiple countries, but he decided to stay back. He has been appearing for daily addresses to the nation and although he has been compared to former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, he denied it completely during an interview with TIME magazine, citing Churchill’s reputation as an imperialist.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-set-to-visit-saudi-arabia-on-wednesday-540687">China's President Xi Jinping arrives in Riyadh, to meet Saudi and Arab leaders</a>

Zelensky said that he would want to be associated with comedian Charlie Chaplin who criticised Adolf Hitler during World War II and author George Orwell who “wrote against authoritarianism”.

“I’ve raised the example of Charlie Chaplin, how he used the weapon of information during the Second World War to fight against fascism,” he said. “You see, there were these artists who helped society, because they had a lot of admirers, and their influence was often stronger than artillery.” 
 
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year on Wednesday for leading his country during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year on Wednesday for leading his country during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky has achieved global fame for his role in Ukraine’s defence against Russia and in the past year, he has become a massive global figure for his speeches and appearances at major summits and events around the world. Zelensky was previously a comedian and actor before becoming President back in 2019. Also read | Former MP among 25 detained in Germany for plot to 'overthrow state' The other personalities and entities in the running along with Zelensky were United States Supreme Court, politician Liz Cheney and last year’s winner – Tesla and Twitter CEO Elon Musk. When Russia invaded Ukraine in February earlier this year, Zelensky was offered asylum by multiple countries, but he decided to stay back. He has been appearing for daily addresses to the nation and although he has been compared to former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, he denied it completely during an interview with TIME magazine, citing Churchill’s reputation as an imperialist. Also read | China's President Xi Jinping arrives in Riyadh, to meet Saudi and Arab leaders Zelensky said that he would want to be associated with comedian Charlie Chaplin who criticised Adolf Hitler during World War II and author George Orwell who “wrote against authoritarianism”. “I’ve raised the example of Charlie Chaplin, how he used the weapon of information during the Second World War to fight against fascism,” he said. “You see, there were these artists who helped society, because they had a lot of admirers, and their influence was often stronger than artillery.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky named TIME magazine's 'Person of the Year'

Poland is preparing to deploy the German Patriot air defence system on its territory. The move comes after Berlin refused to place this system in Ukraine. Watch this video for all the details.

Why is Poland deploying the German Patriot air defence system on its territory?

Footage released by the Russian Defence Ministry claim to show Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus. A statement released by the Ministry says that the servicemen, from Russia's Western military district, are conducting a training exercise for "a cleanup in a residential area", with a simulation town being constructed especially for the drills.

Russia releases footage showing Moscow's forces training at a facility in Belarus

"We have not provided Ukraine with weapons to use inside Russia, we have been very clear that it is our defensive supplies. The President said very clearly sometime ago that we are not enabling Ukraine to strike," said US' spokesperson Ned Price.

'We have not provided Ukraine with weapons to use inside Russia,' says US' spokesperson Ned Price

Hours after the third Russian airfield was set to blaze by a drone strike, the US Secretary of State reiterated Washington's position that it is neither encouraged nor enabled the Ukrainians to strike inside Russia. "We have neither encouraged nor enabled to strike inside of Russia but the important thing is to understand what Ukrainians are living through, everyday, with the ongoing Russia aggression," said Antony Blinken.

US reacts to strikes inside Russia as third Russian airbase attacked in two days

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