Burial services were held for multiple unidentified bodies found in Bucha, the town outside the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv that saw hundreds of people slaughtered under Russian occupation early in the war. The civilian killings at Bucha have become a symbol of brutality of the war.

Ukraine: Bucha Priest conducts multiple burial services for civilians

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed on Tuesday to raise Ukraine's national flag in currently Russian-occupied parts of the country.

President Zelensky vows to hoist the Ukrainian flag in Russian-occupied territories

In pics - Ukraine shows off demolished Russian tanks during parade in Kyiv

August 24 marks Ukraine's independence from erstwhile soviet union. The day is usually marked by grand parades and also festivities but this year Kyiv has decided to ban all public celebrations citing a heightened threat of a possible attack by the Russian forces.

August 24 marks Ukraine's 31st Independence Day; fears of fresh Russian strikes looms

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION | Magic mushrooms likely to be world's most effective tool against depression

The entire continent of Europe is up in arms once again. Russia and its state-owned energy giant Gazprom has announced that the all-important Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline will remain shut down for three days for 'routine maintenance', starting August 31.

The entire continent of Europe is up in arms once again. Russia and its state-owned energy giant Gazprom has announced that the all-important Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline will remain shut down for three days for 'routine maintenance', starting August 31. "On August 31, 2022, the only gas compressor unit that is currently in operation, Trent 60 will be shut down for a three-day servicing and preventive maintenance period," said Gazprom in an official statement. In the immediate aftermath of the announcement, natural gas prices in Europe skyrocketed as countries looked to build reserves, fearing the temporary halt may very well extend beyond three days. WATCH | Gazprom to shut Nord stream 1 for 3 days, pipeline to close for maintenance work × On Monday, the euro, the major currency of Europe sunk to its lowest level since 2002. According to reports, the currency slid as much as one per cent to as low as $0.9934 in the afternoon. Moreover, the Dutch TTF hub, a European benchmark for natural gas trading saw a hike of 19 per cent to reach $292.9 per megawatt hour. Investment bank Citi has warned that the energy bills, exacerbated by the frequent shutdowns and low supply will drive UK inflation to over 18 per cent early next year. An average UK household is expected to shell out as much as $5,000, come the winters. Meanwhile, UK natural gas prices have risen nearly 96 per cent in the year to July, while electricity prices are up 54 per cent. Read more: UK gas major Centrica's profits soar amid sky-high energy prices The pipeline which runs from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea is the lifeline of the European countries. Despite being against Russia since its invasion of Ukraine, the European countries have remained toothless against Moscow which has used its position of dominance to circumvent the sanctions. Furthermore, as reported extensively by WION, this is not the first time that Russia has attempted to leverage its position to bring the European countries on their knees. In July too, Russia closed Nord Stream 1 citing maintenance and that the 12-metre turbine used to operate the pipeline was stuck in Canada for repairs. Read More: The turbine conundrum: Russia and Germany play blame game on the delivery of Nord Stream 1 turbine At one time, Gazprom which was to supposedly receive the turbine, even threatened to close the supply for good. However, after 10 days, the supply resumed but it never managed to hit the pre-maintenance levels. Gazprom has stated that the pipeline will resume in line with current volumes of 33 million cubic meters a day, which is only about 20 per cent of the total capacity of the pipeline. The war has been going on for months and yet the European continent has only been able to reduce their combined gas dependency on Russia by a tiny five per cent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gazprom's halt of Nord Stream 1 pipeline plunges Europe into a gas crisis

Wednesday (August 24) marks Ukraine’s 31 years of independence from Soviet rule and also six months since the Russian invasion often referred to as Moscow's 'special military operation.’

The US state department, in a security advisory, stated that Russia is speeding up its attempts to undertake strikes against Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure and government sites in the coming days.

The US embassy in Kyiv asked all US citizens who are still in Ukraine to leave the nation immediately.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-ukrainian-soldiers-accuse-russians-of-atrocities-in-prison-509299">Also read |&nbsp;Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison</a>

The state department in its alert said, "If you hear a loud explosion or if sirens are activated, immediately seek cover." It further continued, "If in a home or a building, go to the lowest level of the structure with the fewest exterior walls, windows, and openings; close any doors and sit near an interior wall, away from any windows or openings."

The United States on Monday condemned the targeted killing of civilians, saying it stands against such practices, whether they occur in Ukraine or Russia.

The reason behind the targeted killing by Russia is the killing of Darya Dugina, daughter of a close adviser to the Russian president, in a car bomb blast on Saturday night.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-rejects-volodymyr-zelenskys-request-to-impose-a-blanket-visa-ban-on-russians-509310">Also read |&nbsp;US rejects Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians</a>

Russia claimed that the assassination was carried out by Ukraine’s secret services. According to the Federal Service of Russia (FSB), Natalya Vovk, a Ukrainian citizen, committed the crime before escaping to Estonia. However, Ukraine has denied any involvement.

The US has so far imposed sanctions on nearly 5,000 individuals since the beginning of the invasion on February 24, the State Department said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Wednesday (August 24) marks Ukraine’s 31 years of independence from Soviet rule and also six months since the Russian invasion often referred to as Moscow's 'special military operation.

Wednesday (August 24) marks Ukraine’s 31 years of independence from Soviet rule and also six months since the Russian invasion often referred to as Moscow's 'special military operation.’ The US state department, in a security advisory, stated that Russia is speeding up its attempts to undertake strikes against Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure and government sites in the coming days. The US embassy in Kyiv asked all US citizens who are still in Ukraine to leave the nation immediately. Also read | Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison The state department in its alert said, "If you hear a loud explosion or if sirens are activated, immediately seek cover." It further continued, "If in a home or a building, go to the lowest level of the structure with the fewest exterior walls, windows, and openings; close any doors and sit near an interior wall, away from any windows or openings." The United States on Monday condemned the targeted killing of civilians, saying it stands against such practices, whether they occur in Ukraine or Russia. The reason behind the targeted killing by Russia is the killing of Darya Dugina, daughter of a close adviser to the Russian president, in a car bomb blast on Saturday night. Also read | US rejects Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians Russia claimed that the assassination was carried out by Ukraine’s secret services. According to the Federal Service of Russia (FSB), Natalya Vovk, a Ukrainian citizen, committed the crime before escaping to Estonia. However, Ukraine has denied any involvement. The US has so far imposed sanctions on nearly 5,000 individuals since the beginning of the invasion on February 24, the State Department said. (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.

US condemns Russia on targeting civilians, warns Moscow plans to hit govt buildings

Drones have become the top focus in Ukraine as thousands are being used by both sides to hit targets behind the enemy lines. Molly Gambhir tells you how drones are shaping this war.

WION Fineprint: How drones are shaping the Ukraine war

The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine. While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”.

Earlier, Zelensky urged the US government to stop any Russian citizen from entering the country by imposing a visa ban. During an interview with the Washington Post, the Ukrainian president said that the Russians need to "live in their own world until they change their philosophy."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/released-ukrainian-soldiers-accuse-russians-of-atrocities-in-prison-509299" hreflang="en">Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison</a>

He also made a similar request to the countries of the European Union as he said that such a step will stop them from becoming a "supermarket open to anyone with the means to enter”.

However, the White House made it clear on Monday that they will not be imposing any such ban. A spokesperson from the state department said in the official statement that the US has already sanctioned key Kremlin officials and will continue to aid Ukraine in their ongoing struggle.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-seeks-special-master-to-examine-mar-a-lago-documents-509307">Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents</a>

"The U.S. wouldn’t want to close off pathways to refuge and safety for Russia’s dissidents or others who are vulnerable to human rights abuses," the spokesperson said, according to Reuters.

"We’ve also been clear that it is important to draw a line between the actions of the Russian government and its policies in Ukraine, and the people of Russia," the spokesperson added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine.

The United States has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians as conflict continues to rise in Ukraine. While the US has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine during the Russian invasion, the White House has said that a blanket ban will close any opportunity for “dissidents and people vulnerable to human rights abuses”. Earlier, Zelensky urged the US government to stop any Russian citizen from entering the country by imposing a visa ban. During an interview with the Washington Post, the Ukrainian president said that the Russians need to "live in their own world until they change their philosophy." Also read | Released Ukrainian soldiers accuse Russians of atrocities in prison He also made a similar request to the countries of the European Union as he said that such a step will stop them from becoming a "supermarket open to anyone with the means to enter”. However, the White House made it clear on Monday that they will not be imposing any such ban. A spokesperson from the state department said in the official statement that the US has already sanctioned key Kremlin officials and will continue to aid Ukraine in their ongoing struggle. Also read | Trump seeks 'special master' to examine Mar-a-Lago documents "The U.S. wouldn’t want to close off pathways to refuge and safety for Russia’s dissidents or others who are vulnerable to human rights abuses," the spokesperson said, according to Reuters. "We’ve also been clear that it is important to draw a line between the actions of the Russian government and its policies in Ukraine, and the people of Russia," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

US rejects Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to impose a blanket visa ban on Russians

Russia accused Ukraine of murdering Daria Dugina, the daughter of Vladimir Putin's 'guru'. How will this assassination affect the war in Ukraine? Where does it leave the southern counter-attack by Ukraine? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Russia accuses Ukraine of murdering daughter of Putin's 'guru'

It's almost six months since the war in Ukraine began, there is no end to the spiraling tensions. In the latest, Ukraine's military has now claimed that the Russian missiles hit the Bakhmut over the weekend, our next report gets you all the details.

Ukraine: Russian missiles hit Bakhmut

Ukraine is bracing itself for increased Russian attacks ahead of its Independence Day on August 24th which falls exactly six months after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced what he called a 'special operation' in the neighboring nation.

War in Ukraine nears 6 months, braces itself for Russian intensified attacks

Amidst the growing concerns over shelling around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, leaders of Britain, France, Germany and United States held a telephonic conversation where they stressed the need to ensure the safety of nuclear installations threatened by the conflict in Ukraine.

Western leaders call for more security at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

In the centre of the Ukrainian capital's Khreshchatyk Boulevard, burned-out Russian tanks and infantry carriers were on display, attracting the interest of onlookers and amateur photographers.

Burnt Russian tanks on display in Kyiv ahead of Ukraine's Independence Day

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is presently on a 3 day visit to Canada to try and boost energy security. The visit comes after a looming energy crisis in Europe. Scholz is accompanied by Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck.

Germany: Scholz, Trudeau likely to sign clean hydrogen deal

As the war in Ukraine continues, Kyiv is bracing for Russian attacks since time for Ukraine's Independence day on the 24th of August. This also comes after the killing of Russian philosopher Alexander Dugina's daughter, Darya Dugina.

Kyiv: Ban on public gatherings from today, on alert ahead of Independence Day

Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same. Meanwhile Singapore on Sunday did away with the archaic colonial-era law that criminalised gay sex. In other news, Japanese PM&nbsp;Fumio Kishida has tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Click the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underdog-has-got-nothing-to-lose-he-fights-for-every-inch-rishi-sunak-in-campaign-video-508901">Underdog has nothing to lose, he fights for every inch: Rishi Sunak in campaign video</a>

As allies insisted he is still in a position to win, Rishi Sunak has positioned himself as the "underdog" in the race to become the next prime minister of UK. At the Tories' Friday hustings for the party's top job in Manchester, Sunak was introduced in a brand-new video montage that portrayed the former chancellor as an audacious outsider.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/19/280451-untitled-design-7.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nso-group-ceo-steps-down-amid-mounting-legal-actions-over-its-pegasus-sypware-software-508915">Israel: NSO Group CEO steps down amid mounting legal actions for Pegasus</a>

Israeli spyware firm NSO group that manufactures the controversial Pegasus software has announced a change in the top hierarchy. Reportedly, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shalev Hulio has stepped down with immediate effect from his position on Sunday. Additionaly, the company is&nbsp;laying off 100 employees out of its workforce of 750.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289423-copy-of-untitled-5.png" />

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/singapore-lifts-ban-on-gay-sex-repeals-section-377a-but-upholds-marriage-ban-508900">Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban</a>

In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289414-copy-of-untitled-4.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-govt-warns-imran-khan-mulls-filing-case-against-him-over-threat-speech-508880">Pakistan govt warns Imran Khan, mulls filing case against him over 'threat speech'</a>

The interior minister for Pakistan, Rana Sanaullah, stated on Sunday that the government was discussing whether to bring a new case against Imran Khan, the PTI chairman, for his "provocative speech" from the previous day or to add him to an existing case.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289302-new-wion-50.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-pound-odesa-as-ukrainian-independence-day-draws-closer-508917">Russian missiles pound Odesa as Ukrainian Independence Day draws closer</a>

Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24. It will be Ukraine's 31st Independence Day.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289424-ukraine-8.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-prime-minister-fumio-kishida-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-ahead-of-an-african-trip-508879">Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tests positive for coronavirus ahead of an African trip</a>

The Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive.&nbsp;Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/10/278136-rcipb3froboyfpl7jtr6imqro4.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexander-dugins-daughter-killed-in-car-bomb-attack-who-is-darya-dugina-508788">Alexander Dugin's daughter killed in car bomb attack: Who is Darya Dugina?</a>

Russia President Vladimir Putin's ally Alexander Dugin's daughter Darya Dugina, 30, was killed in a car bomb attack near Moscow, reports said. Alexander was in a car behind Darya's vehicle when the explosion occurred. Darya Dugina's death was confirmed by the Russian news agency TASS. She was reportedly driving a Toyota land cruiser Prado when the explosion occurred.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289325-rasp1.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-urged-to-rethink-its-genetics-data-sharing-policy-with-china-508860">Experts urge UK to rethink its genetics data sharing policy with China</a>

Demands are being raised in the United Kingdom to stop the sharing of confidential&nbsp;genetic data&nbsp;of over 500,000 Britons with&nbsp;China.&nbsp;Reportedly, under&nbsp;several hundred ongoing projects of the UK Biobank,&nbsp;researchers in China have&nbsp;been accessing 'detailed genetic information' and other health-related data of UK citizens.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289387-top3ts4deniujf3zkzaxgipcr4.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-victory-is-for-my-country-oleksandr-usyk-pays-tribute-to-ukrainian-military-after-beating-anthony-joshua-508866">This victory is for my country: Oleksandr Usyk pays tribute to Ukrainian military after beating Anthony Joshua</a>

&nbsp;"I did this victory for my country, for all people, militaries who are defending the country. Thank you very, very much." said&nbsp;Oleksandr Usyk after defeating&nbsp;British boxer Anthony Joshua.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/21/289390-untitled-design-2022-08-21t160943723.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/netizens-strongly-react-to-anonymous-death-threats-made-against-bts-jimin-and-v-508825">Netizens strongly react to anonymous death threats made against BTS' Jimin and V</a>

On Friday, netizens started reporting suspicious posts containing death threats against BTS' Jimin and V on the fan community platform Weverse. Referring to the upcoming Busan concert, an anonymous person made threats to assassinate the popular South Korean singers and shared a picture of a gun. Screenshots of the death threats have been doing rounds on social media.

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WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same.

Rishi Sunak is not dropping the towel in the PM race. In a change of strategy, he has dubbed himself as the 'underdog' and even released a video that portrayed him the same. Meanwhile Singapore on Sunday did away with the archaic colonial-era law that criminalised gay sex. In other news, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida has tested positive for coronavirus. Click the headlines to read more Underdog has nothing to lose, he fights for every inch: Rishi Sunak in campaign video As allies insisted he is still in a position to win, Rishi Sunak has positioned himself as the "underdog" in the race to become the next prime minister of UK. At the Tories' Friday hustings for the party's top job in Manchester, Sunak was introduced in a brand-new video montage that portrayed the former chancellor as an audacious outsider. Israel: NSO Group CEO steps down amid mounting legal actions for Pegasus Israeli spyware firm NSO group that manufactures the controversial Pegasus software has announced a change in the top hierarchy. Reportedly, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shalev Hulio has stepped down with immediate effect from his position on Sunday. Additionaly, the company is laying off 100 employees out of its workforce of 750. Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, repeals Section 377A, but upholds marriage ban In what comes as a landmark moment in the history of Singapore, the country has decided to repeal an archaic law that criminalised gay sex. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made the announcement on Sunday during his annual policy address. Pakistan govt warns Imran Khan, mulls filing case against him over 'threat speech' The interior minister for Pakistan, Rana Sanaullah, stated on Sunday that the government was discussing whether to bring a new case against Imran Khan, the PTI chairman, for his "provocative speech" from the previous day or to add him to an existing case. Russian missiles pound Odesa as Ukrainian Independence Day draws closer Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24. It will be Ukraine's 31st Independence Day. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tests positive for coronavirus ahead of an African trip The Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive. Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence Alexander Dugin's daughter killed in car bomb attack: Who is Darya Dugina? Russia President Vladimir Putin's ally Alexander Dugin's daughter Darya Dugina, 30, was killed in a car bomb attack near Moscow, reports said. Alexander was in a car behind Darya's vehicle when the explosion occurred. Darya Dugina's death was confirmed by the Russian news agency TASS. She was reportedly driving a Toyota land cruiser Prado when the explosion occurred. Experts urge UK to rethink its genetics data sharing policy with China Demands are being raised in the United Kingdom to stop the sharing of confidential genetic data of over 500,000 Britons with China. Reportedly, under several hundred ongoing projects of the UK Biobank, researchers in China have been accessing 'detailed genetic information' and other health-related data of UK citizens. This victory is for my country: Oleksandr Usyk pays tribute to Ukrainian military after beating Anthony Joshua "I did this victory for my country, for all people, militaries who are defending the country. Thank you very, very much." said Oleksandr Usyk after defeating British boxer Anthony Joshua. Netizens strongly react to anonymous death threats made against BTS' Jimin and V On Friday, netizens started reporting suspicious posts containing death threats against BTS' Jimin and V on the fan community platform Weverse. Referring to the upcoming Busan concert, an anonymous person made threats to assassinate the popular South Korean singers and shared a picture of a gun. Screenshots of the death threats have been doing rounds on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top 10 world news: Singapore lifts ban on gay sex, Japan's PM tests positive for COVID-19 and more

As the war in Ukraine continues, a drone was shot down near Russia's Black sea fleet headquarters in Crimea. The headquarters is located in the city of Sevastopol.

Crimea: Russia intercepts drone attack, shot down near Black sea fleet headquarters

As the war in Ukraine continues, the drone was shot down near Russia's black sea fleet headquarters in Crimea. This is the second such attempted attack against the Russian black sea fleet headquarters in less than a month.

Drone shot down near Russia's black sea fleet headquarters

Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24. It will be Ukraine's 31st Independence Day.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has already said that Moscow could try "something particularly ugly" close to its Independence Day.

Authorities in Russia said on Sunday that investigation was on in a suspected car bomb attack outside Moscow which killed the daughter of Alexander Dugin, an ultra-nationalist Russian ideologue who advocates Russia absorbing Ukraine.

Russian foreign ministry has speculated that the attack may have links with Ukraine. This has been quickly dismissed by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's adviser.

"Ukraine, of course, had nothing to do with this because we are not a criminal state, like the Russian Federation, and moreover we are not a terrorist state," Mykhailo Podolyak said on Ukrainian television, suggesting the incident was a "karmic" payback for supporters of Moscow's invasion.

As Ukraine prepared to mark its Independence Day embroiled in a war that has flattened towns and cities, killed thousands and forced millions to flee, military and regional officials reported more Russian strikes on targets in the east and south of the country.

Of particular concern was the shelling of Nikopol, a city which lies across the Dnipro river from Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's and Europe's biggest nuclear plant. It has been held by Russian forces since March.

Nikopol was shelled on five different occasions overnight, regional governor Valentyn Reznichenko wrote on Telegram. He said 25 artillery shells hit the city, causing a fire at an industrial premises and cut&nbsp;power to 3,000 residents.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24.

Russian missiles have hit Odesa, the Ukrainian port, overnight. Artillery shells have also rained down on a city close to Europe's biggest nuclear plant. The attacks have come as Ukraine heads towards celebrating its Independence Day on August 24. It will be Ukraine's 31st Independence Day. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has already said that Moscow could try "something particularly ugly" close to its Independence Day. Authorities in Russia said on Sunday that investigation was on in a suspected car bomb attack outside Moscow which killed the daughter of Alexander Dugin, an ultra-nationalist Russian ideologue who advocates Russia absorbing Ukraine. Russian foreign ministry has speculated that the attack may have links with Ukraine. This has been quickly dismissed by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's adviser. "Ukraine, of course, had nothing to do with this because we are not a criminal state, like the Russian Federation, and moreover we are not a terrorist state," Mykhailo Podolyak said on Ukrainian television, suggesting the incident was a "karmic" payback for supporters of Moscow's invasion. As Ukraine prepared to mark its Independence Day embroiled in a war that has flattened towns and cities, killed thousands and forced millions to flee, military and regional officials reported more Russian strikes on targets in the east and south of the country. Of particular concern was the shelling of Nikopol, a city which lies across the Dnipro river from Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine's and Europe's biggest nuclear plant. It has been held by Russian forces since March. Nikopol was shelled on five different occasions overnight, regional governor Valentyn Reznichenko wrote on Telegram. He said 25 artillery shells hit the city, causing a fire at an industrial premises and cut power to 3,000 residents. (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 pound Odesa as Ukrainian Independence Day draws closer

As an energy crisis looms due to the war in Ukraine, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is all set to embark on a 3 day visit to Canada. On the agenda is a deal on the supply of clean hydrogen energy and access to critical minerals.

Germany: Olaf Scholz to embark on 3 day Canada visit, sign hydrogen supply deal

Six months into Russia's invasion, Ukrainians are preparing to mark 31 years of independence from the Soviet rule this Wednesday but President Zelensky has issued a warning asking citizens to be more vigilant.

August 24: Ukraine to mark Independence day, to mark 31 years of independence from Soviet rule

Millions in Britain are braving for a much colder winter as sky-high energy prices are set to make it unaffordable for the majority to heat their homes. To provide an alternative, Britain's libraries and museums have stepped up, dubbing themselves as 'warm havens'.

Millions in Britain are braving for a much colder winter as sky-high energy prices are set to make it unaffordable for the majority to heat their homes. To provide an alternative, Britain's libraries and museums have stepped up, dubbing themselves as 'warm havens'. Reportedly, these public buildings will form a part of a network across the country, providing warm shelters to people to avoid the frigid cool temperatures outside. The main attempt of such 'warm havens' will be to help reduce excess winter deaths. In Pics | As it happened: Heatwave 2022 — 'Monster wildfire' in France, drought in England, China's Yangtze river shrinks “We are acutely aware of the huge impact that the energy crisis will have on many living within the local community. We will be promoting our libraries as designated ‘warm spaces’ for those who can’t afford to heat their homes.” said a library owner who had already spent $33,000 on new seats and furniture, anticipating the increase in visitors. While the onus is being put on the public buildings to fill the void, their own energy bills are touching record highs. Hence the ministers across the UK are being urged to release immediate funding, directed towards the public buildings. It is pertinent to note that while UK-based energy companies such as Centrica and Shell are having bumper profitable quarters, an average UK household is expected to shell as much as $5,000, come the winters. UK natural gas prices have risen nearly 96 per cent in the year to July, while electricity prices are up 54 per cent. Read more: UK gas major Centrica's profits soar amid sky-high energy prices The war between Ukraine and Russia has hit Europe the hardest. However, compared to other European countries, the energy bill prices in the UK have soared the most. Up until last year, Russia supplied the European Union, which the UK was part of once, with 40 per cent of its gas needs. However, that figure has dropped drastically this year as Russia continues to use its position of leverage to hurt Europe for supporting Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Museums and libraries to turn 'warm havens' in the UK to reduce winter deaths

As per reports, Darya Dugina the daughter of a Russian philosopher Alexander Dugina has been killed near Moscow. Alexander is believed to be a close ally to Russia's President Vladimir Putin.

Reports: Darya Dugina killed in a car explosion in Moscow

Ukraine to mark 31 years of Independence from soviet rule on August 24. Meanwhile, Ukrainian president Zelensky has warned Ukrainians ahead of their Independence day.

Zelensky warns Ukrainians ahead of their Independence day

Every year Ukraine marks its independence day on the 24th August. This year, the 24th August will also mark the completion of six months of the ongoing war. Ukrainian president Zelensky has warned people across the country that Russia could be preparing for fresh attacks.

6 months of the war in Ukraine: How Putin's battle reached impasse

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shelling Zaporizhzhia. Now, International atomic energy agency team will visit Zaporizhzhia. Still the question arises, is Ukraine ready for another Chernobyl-like catastrophe?

Is Ukraine ready for another Chernobyl-like catastrophe?

As the war in Ukraine drags on, the US has now announced a new 7.75 million dollar aid package for the war-torn nation to help it fight the Russian troops. the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Friday that the assistance will include firearms and military equipment from department of defense inventories.

US: Provides mine-resistant vehicles to Ukraine, new aid to target Russian artillery

Russia has now agreed to allow a mission from the International Atomic Energy Agency to inspect the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear power plant. This was confirmed by French President Emmanuel Macron after he had a phone conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky welcomes IAEA inspection, security of plant restored after check

What's in the $775 mn arms package for Ukraine?

World at War | Episode 16: Ukraine's mystery explosions destroy Russian fighter jets in Crimea United States tests its nuclear capable Minuteman III missile China's 'String of Pearls' for dominance of the Indian Ocean region & is it time for the U.S. to put behind its policy of strategic ambiguity over Taiwan? Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the World's biggest warzones of the week in World At War

World at War | Episode 16: Ukraine's mystery explosions destroy Russian fighter jets in Crimea

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