As the war in Ukraine drags on, the US has now announced a new $775 mn 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 approves $775 million package to aid Ukraine | Will supplying weapons end the war?

Six Ukrainian drones sent to assault the settlement of Nova Kakhovka, east of the city of Kherson, were shot down by Russian anti-aircraft forces. Retaking Kherson is one of Ukraine's top goals, the country claims. In other news, in a statement on a pro-Shabaab website, the militants claimed said: "A group of Al-Shabaab attackers forcibly entered Hotel Hayat in Mogadishu, the fighters are carrying out random shooting inside the hotel."

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-treated-russians-to-a-magical-evening-launched-drone-attack-on-crimea-508581">Ukraine launches fresh drone attack on Russian-annexed Crimea, far from war front</a>
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A day after explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory that was under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attack-on-mogadishu-hotel-leaves-several-injured-jihadist-group-al-shabaab-claims-responsibility-508555">Attack on Mogadishu hotel leaves several injured; Jihadist group Al-Shabaab claims responsibility</a>
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A hotel in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, was hit by gunfire and explosions on Friday as members of a Jihadist organisation&nbsp;overtook the establishment.&nbsp;

The jihadist organisation, Al-Shabaab, which has ties to Al-Qaeda has claimed ownership of the attack. The group has been conducting a violent insurgency against the fragile central government of Somalia for about 15 years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-sri-lanka-talks-to-resume-next-week-508574">IMF-Sri Lanka talks to resume next week</a>
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The International Monetary Fund on Friday said that its team will travel to Sri Lanka next week to resume aid talks.

Formal negotiations on a fresh package for the struggling country started in June but were derailed by the political unrest that forced the now ex-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign and then flee after a horde of protestors&nbsp;dramatically overtook the presidential palace.

WION Fineprint: Taipei holds military exercises to display war preparedness

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Six Ukrainian drones sent to assault the settlement of Nova Kakhovka, east of the city of Kherson, were shot down by Russian anti-aircraft forces. Retaking Kherson is one of Ukraine's top goals, the country claims.

Six Ukrainian drones sent to assault the settlement of Nova Kakhovka, east of the city of Kherson, were shot down by Russian anti-aircraft forces. Retaking Kherson is one of Ukraine's top goals, the country claims. In other news, in a statement on a pro-Shabaab website, the militants claimed said: "A group of Al-Shabaab attackers forcibly entered Hotel Hayat in Mogadishu, the fighters are carrying out random shooting inside the hotel." Click on headline to read more: Ukraine launches fresh drone attack on Russian-annexed Crimea, far from war front A day after explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory that was under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines. Attack on Mogadishu hotel leaves several injured; Jihadist group Al-Shabaab claims responsibility A hotel in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, was hit by gunfire and explosions on Friday as members of a Jihadist organisation overtook the establishment. The jihadist organisation, Al-Shabaab, which has ties to Al-Qaeda has claimed ownership of the attack. The group has been conducting a violent insurgency against the fragile central government of Somalia for about 15 years. IMF-Sri Lanka talks to resume next week The International Monetary Fund on Friday said that its team will travel to Sri Lanka next week to resume aid talks. Formal negotiations on a fresh package for the struggling country started in June but were derailed by the political unrest that forced the now ex-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign and then flee after a horde of protestors dramatically overtook the presidential palace. WION Fineprint: Taipei holds military exercises to display war preparedness × WION Fineprint: Apple asks its users to update the devices urgently ×

Morning news brief: Ukraine's drone attack on Russia, Somalia explosions, and more

The US Department of Defense on Friday (August 19) made an announcement of USD 775 million package of defence equipment and ammunition for Ukraine. The package includes various types of missiles, artillery as well as mine-clearing systems.

The package also includes precision-guided missiles for the Himars system&nbsp;that has enabled Ukraine to strike Russian command centres and ammunition&nbsp;depots far behind the front lines. The package also includes anti-armour weapons.

Scan Eagle surveillance drones, high-speed anti-radiation missiles and 105 mm howitzers have also been included in the package.

Watch | Russia deploys Hypersonic Missiles to Kaliningrad region as Ukraine nears six-month mark

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"We want to make sure that Ukraine has a steady stream of ammunition to meet its needs, and that's what we're doing with this package," a senior US defence official told reporters.

The official said Ukraine's forces have made good use of the now 19 packages of arms the United States has provided since Moscow invaded on February 24, helping them blunt the advance of Russian forces.

"You are seeing a complete and total lack of progress by the Russians on the battlefield," the official said, speaking to reporters on grounds of anonymity.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-antonio-guterres-asks-russian-occupied-nuclear-plant-not-be-cut-off-from-ukraines-grid-508463">UN chief Antonio Guterres says Russia-occupied nuclear plant not be cut off from Ukraine's grid</a>

"You are seeing the Russians still paying a high price with Ukrainian attacks, especially using that Himars system," the official said.&nbsp;

"They are incurring these costs and are not able to advance."

The official conceded that Ukraine has not been able to recapture significant territory in the east and south, but said that new package of arms will help fortify Ukrainian positions. The official noted that &nbsp;it was very important to be able to "sustain the successes that we've seen from the Ukrainians on the battlefield."

(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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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The US Department of Defense on Friday (August 19) made an announcement of USD 775 million package of defence equipment and ammunition for Ukraine. The package includes various types of missiles, artillery as well as mine-clearing systems.

The US Department of Defense on Friday (August 19) made an announcement of USD 775 million package of defence equipment and ammunition for Ukraine. The package includes various types of missiles, artillery as well as mine-clearing systems. The package also includes precision-guided missiles for the Himars system that has enabled Ukraine to strike Russian command centres and ammunition depots far behind the front lines. The package also includes anti-armour weapons. Scan Eagle surveillance drones, high-speed anti-radiation missiles and 105 mm howitzers have also been included in the package. Watch | Russia deploys Hypersonic Missiles to Kaliningrad region as Ukraine nears six-month mark × "We want to make sure that Ukraine has a steady stream of ammunition to meet its needs, and that's what we're doing with this package," a senior US defence official told reporters. The official said Ukraine's forces have made good use of the now 19 packages of arms the United States has provided since Moscow invaded on February 24, helping them blunt the advance of Russian forces. "You are seeing a complete and total lack of progress by the Russians on the battlefield," the official said, speaking to reporters on grounds of anonymity. Also Read | UN chief Antonio Guterres says Russia-occupied nuclear plant not be cut off from Ukraine's grid "You are seeing the Russians still paying a high price with Ukrainian attacks, especially using that Himars system," the official said. "They are incurring these costs and are not able to advance." The official conceded that Ukraine has not been able to recapture significant territory in the east and south, but said that new package of arms will help fortify Ukrainian positions. The official noted that it was very important to be able to "sustain the successes that we've seen from the Ukrainians on the battlefield." (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 announces fresh arms package worth USD 775 million for Ukraine

A video has emerged from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine. Russian military vehicles can be seen inside a turbine hall that's connected to a nuclear reactor. Ukraine says Russia is preparing to stage a provocation. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Weapons and explosives inside Ukraine's nuclear power plant

A day after several explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines.

The most recent events came after big explosions at an air base in Crimea that Russia had occupied last week. According to a recent assessment by a Western official, that singular incident instantly rendered worthless half of Russia's Black Sea naval aviation force.

According to a local official in Crimea quoted by Russia's RIA and Tass news agencies, it appeared Russian anti-aircraft units were in action on Friday night close to the western Crimean port of Yevpatoriya. A Russian website published a video of what seemed to be a ground-to-air missile striking a target. Reuters was unable to immediately verify the authenticity of the video.

Meanwhile, six Ukrainian drones sent to assault the settlement of Nova Kakhovka, east of the city of Kherson, were shot down by anti-aircraft forces, claimed Russia. Retaking Kherson is one of Ukraine's top goals, the country claims. Separately, a Crimean official reported that undetermined numbers of drones had been shot down over Sevastopol, as per a local official quoted by the Tass news agency.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nations-display-military-might-at-international-army-games-hosted-by-russia-508292">In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia</a>

Seriy Khlan, a member of the regional council for Kherson that was abolished by Russian occupation forces, remarked that "the Ukrainian armed forces treated the Russians to a magical evening."&nbsp;

The previous evening, numerous explosions in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, had been reported, including ones in Sevastopol, the base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, and at Kerch, close to a huge bridge to Russia.

The&nbsp;frontline nuclear power plant, the Zaporizhzhia complex, was also the subject of dire threats from Ukraine, which claimed that Moscow was plotting a "large-scale provocation" to use as an excuse to disconnect the plant from the Ukrainian power grid and connect it to Russia's.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A day after several explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines.

A day after several explosions occurred near military sites in Russia and in Ukrainian territory under Russian control, Russia claimed more Ukrainian drone attacks on Friday night, seemingly demonstrating Kyiv's growing capacity to batter Moscow's assets far from the front lines. The most recent events came after big explosions at an air base in Crimea that Russia had occupied last week. According to a recent assessment by a Western official, that singular incident instantly rendered worthless half of Russia's Black Sea naval aviation force. According to a local official in Crimea quoted by Russia's RIA and Tass news agencies, it appeared Russian anti-aircraft units were in action on Friday night close to the western Crimean port of Yevpatoriya. A Russian website published a video of what seemed to be a ground-to-air missile striking a target. Reuters was unable to immediately verify the authenticity of the video. Meanwhile, six Ukrainian drones sent to assault the settlement of Nova Kakhovka, east of the city of Kherson, were shot down by anti-aircraft forces, claimed Russia. Retaking Kherson is one of Ukraine's top goals, the country claims. Separately, a Crimean official reported that undetermined numbers of drones had been shot down over Sevastopol, as per a local official quoted by the Tass news agency. Also Read: In pics: Nations display military might at International Army Games hosted by Russia Seriy Khlan, a member of the regional council for Kherson that was abolished by Russian occupation forces, remarked that "the Ukrainian armed forces treated the Russians to a magical evening." The previous evening, numerous explosions in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, had been reported, including ones in Sevastopol, the base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, and at Kerch, close to a huge bridge to Russia. The frontline nuclear power plant, the Zaporizhzhia complex, was also the subject of dire threats from Ukraine, which claimed that Moscow was plotting a "large-scale provocation" to use as an excuse to disconnect the plant from the Ukrainian power grid and connect it to Russia's. (with inputs from agencies)

Ukraine launches fresh drone strike on Russia-annexed Crimea, far from war front

Ukrainian president Zelensky has urged UN to maintain security at nuclear plant. UN chief, Zelensky and Erdogan discussed grain exports during the meet.

Ukraine: Zelensky urges UN to maintain security at nuclear plant

The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines.&nbsp;

After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people.

Tayyip Erdogan, Antonio&nbsp;Guterres, and Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly had a conversation about reviving the peace talks with Russia that had been suspended during the March meetings in Istanbul. Russia and Ukraine achieved an agreement in July for Moscow to ease a blockade on Ukrainian grain supplies, and exports began at the start of August as a result of a deal mediated by the UN and Turkey.&nbsp;

Turkey, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), has maintained positive commercial relations with Russia and has made efforts to mediate the war, which started six months ago when the Russian military invaded neighbouring Ukraine.

The administration of United States President Joe Biden is also preparing an additional $800 million in military assistance for Ukraine, which may be announced as soon as this Friday, according to three sources with knowledge of the situation.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nasas-gigantic-sls-moon-rocket-a-practice-for-future-mars-mission-507987">In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission</a>

In the meantime, the regional governor reported on Thursday that two separate Russian attacks on Kharkiv, a significant city in northeastern Ukraine, resulted in 17 fatalities and 42 injuries. An early-morning missile attack on Thursday resulted in three civilian deaths and 17 injuries, according to the local emergency services. That came after a Wednesday Russian strikes on Kharkiv, which the emergency services first reported had left 12 dead.

On the Crimean peninsula, which is under the jurisdiction of Moscow, at least four explosions were reported to have occurred on Thursday. In the previous ten days, explosions at additional Russian locations in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, have been orchestrated, according to hints from Ukraine.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines.

The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines. After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people. Tayyip Erdogan, Antonio Guterres, and Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly had a conversation about reviving the peace talks with Russia that had been suspended during the March meetings in Istanbul. Russia and Ukraine achieved an agreement in July for Moscow to ease a blockade on Ukrainian grain supplies, and exports began at the start of August as a result of a deal mediated by the UN and Turkey. Turkey, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), has maintained positive commercial relations with Russia and has made efforts to mediate the war, which started six months ago when the Russian military invaded neighbouring Ukraine. The administration of United States President Joe Biden is also preparing an additional $800 million in military assistance for Ukraine, which may be announced as soon as this Friday, according to three sources with knowledge of the situation. Also Read: In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission In the meantime, the regional governor reported on Thursday that two separate Russian attacks on Kharkiv, a significant city in northeastern Ukraine, resulted in 17 fatalities and 42 injuries. An early-morning missile attack on Thursday resulted in three civilian deaths and 17 injuries, according to the local emergency services. That came after a Wednesday Russian strikes on Kharkiv, which the emergency services first reported had left 12 dead. On the Crimean peninsula, which is under the jurisdiction of Moscow, at least four explosions were reported to have occurred on Thursday. In the previous ten days, explosions at additional Russian locations in Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014, have been orchestrated, according to hints from Ukraine. (with inputs from agencies)

UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned'

After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people. In other news, referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un&nbsp;said, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.”

Click on the headline to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-meets-zelensky-and-erdogan-to-secure-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-says-deeply-concerned-508270">UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned'</a>
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The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-sister-rejects-south-koreas-economic-assistance-plan-will-not-give-up-nukes-508260">Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes</a>
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Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/affidavit-that-led-to-the-raid-at-trumps-house-can-be-unsealed-us-judge-508242">Affidavit that led to the raid at Trump's house can be unsealed: US Judge</a>
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In what comes as a small victory for Donald Trump and his legion of Republican supporters, a Florida Federal judge on Thursday issued orders that portions of the affidavit that the FBI used to secure&nbsp;a search warrant against the former President can be made public, much to the chagrin of Department of Justice (DOJ).&nbsp;

Gravitas: Indian soldiers to hold drills with China?

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'We just partied in a boisterous way,' Finland PM Sanna Marin expresses dismay at leaked videos

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After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people.

After meetings in Lviv, Ukraine, on Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that he was deeply concerned about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and demanded the removal of military equipment and people. In other news, referring to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un said, “I’m not sure that he knows his assumption ‘if the North took a measure for denuclearization’ was a wrong prerequisite. All cannot be bartered. Bitter contempt is what we will only show those spinning a pipedream to succeed in making us abandon our nukes if they pay more stakes.” Click on the headline to read more: UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned' The head of the United Nations and the presidents of Turkey and Ukraine discussed strategies for putting a stop to the conflict that Russia initiated while also securing the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which has been shelled near the front lines. Kim Jong Un's sister rejects South Korea's economic assistance plan; will not give up nukes Days after South Korea extended an “audacious” economic assistance package to North Korea in exchange for denuclearisation, it has received a message, albeit one that is not too courteous. Reportedly, Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un termed the offer 'foolish' and stated that her country would never accept the offer. Affidavit that led to the raid at Trump's house can be unsealed: US Judge In what comes as a small victory for Donald Trump and his legion of Republican supporters, a Florida Federal judge on Thursday issued orders that portions of the affidavit that the FBI used to secure a search warrant against the former President can be made public, much to the chagrin of Department of Justice (DOJ). Gravitas: Indian soldiers to hold drills with China? × 'We just partied in a boisterous way,' Finland PM Sanna Marin expresses dismay at leaked videos ×

Morning brief: UN chief on Ukraine nuke plant flare-up, N Korea won't give up nukes, and more

Russia has deployed warplanes armed with state-of-the-art hypersonic missiles to the country's Kaliningrad region on the coast of the Baltic sea. The heavily militarized region of Kaliningrad does not share a land border with Russia but is wedged between Lithuania and Poland, both of whom are part of the European Union and NATO.

Russia: Warplanes armed with hypersonic missiles, war with Ukraine nears six-month mark

Ukraine's nuclear energy provider claims Russia is planning to switch off the functioning power blocks at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and disconnect it from the site from the Ukrainian power grid.

Looming nuclear threat in Southern Ukraine, shelling continues around Zaporizhzhia

From Ukraine's Underwater mine clearance team in action to Celebration of Janmasthami festival in India, here are some impactful images from around the world on 19 August 2022.

World in Pictures: Ukraine's Underwater mine clearance team in action; Janmasthami festival in India

Russia has deployed war planes armed with state-of-the-art hypersonic missiles to the country's Kaliningrad region on the coast of the Baltic sea.

Russia deploys Hypersonic Missiles to Kaliningrad region as Ukraine nears six-month mark

Amid the growing concerns over shelling around Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, United Nations general secretary Antonio Guterres met Ukraine and Turkey's President.

Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant talks: UN chief meets Turkish, Ukrainian Presidents

The war in Ukraine could take a dangerous turn. Russia is stockpiling missiles in Belarus. Kyiv fears Moscow could launch an operation next week - on the Independence Day of Ukraine. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Russia plans "special operation" for Ukraine's Independence Day

Ukraine's foreign minister says India is buying Russian crude oil tainted by Ukrainian blood. Foreign minister S Jaishankar defended the move as part of easing India's cost-of-living crisis. Why has the world struggled to accept India's strategic autonomy? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Ukraine says India buying Russian oil with 'Ukrainian blood'

The threat around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is far from over. According to the latest reports, Russia has allegedly asked the nuclear power plant workers not to show up at work.

Kyiv: Russia told workers not to show up; Russia, Ukraine trade charges

Kyiv: Speculations rife over 'provocations', Russia told workers to not show up

Refuting rumours, Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu said&nbsp;that there is 'no military need' for Russia to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. At an international security conference in Moscow, Shoigu stated, "From a military point of view, there is no need to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine to achieve the set goals."

Shoigu denounced as "absolute lies" reports in the media that suggested Russia may deploy nuclear or chemical weapons to make up for its nearly six-month military campaign in Ukraine moving slowly. General&nbsp;Jim Hockenhull, head of British military intelligence, had told the BBC in an interview that was made public on Friday, that the likelihood of Russia using nuclear weapons in Ukraine could vary if the battlefield dynamics change.&nbsp;

The primary goal of Russian nuclear weapons, according to Shoigu, is to thwart a nuclear assault. Its application is restricted to exceptional situations. These scenarios include an attack using a weapon of mass destruction or a conventional weapon that "threatened the existence of the Russian state," according to Russian ambassador Alexander Trofimov, who spoke at the UN's nuclear non-proliferation conference earlier this month.

Days after beginning what the Kremlin refers to as a "special military operation" in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin put Russia's nuclear forces on high alert, escalating concerns that the country would use its arsenal there.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-weeks-after-popes-visit-a-prominent-cardinal-named-in-a-sexual-assault-class-lawsuit-507581">Canada: Weeks after Pope's visit, a prominent cardinal named in a sexual assault class lawsuit</a>

Recently, increased hostilities between Russia and Ukraine have centred on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Despite being under Russian management, the plant employs Ukrainians. On August 11, Moscow and Kyiv both accused the other of shelling the area around the facility.

According to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, a "catastrophe" at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear reactor in southern Ukraine would put all of Europe in danger.

Russian troops stormed the plant, which is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, at the beginning of March, not long after Moscow began its invasion of Ukraine. Zaporizhzhia has been the focus of several military operations since the end of July, with Moscow and Kyiv each blaming the other for the shelling.&nbsp;

Last Thursday, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the fighting at the plant. Russia is allegedly utilising the factory as a base for potential strikes and to store weapons, claims&nbsp;Ukraine.

(with inputs from agencies)

Refuting rumours, Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu said that there is 'no military need' for Russia to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. At an international security conference in Moscow, Shoigu stated, "From a military point of view, there is no need to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine to achieve the set goals.

Refuting rumours, Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu said that there is 'no military need' for Russia to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. At an international security conference in Moscow, Shoigu stated, "From a military point of view, there is no need to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine to achieve the set goals." Shoigu denounced as "absolute lies" reports in the media that suggested Russia may deploy nuclear or chemical weapons to make up for its nearly six-month military campaign in Ukraine moving slowly. General Jim Hockenhull, head of British military intelligence, had told the BBC in an interview that was made public on Friday, that the likelihood of Russia using nuclear weapons in Ukraine could vary if the battlefield dynamics change. The primary goal of Russian nuclear weapons, according to Shoigu, is to thwart a nuclear assault. Its application is restricted to exceptional situations. These scenarios include an attack using a weapon of mass destruction or a conventional weapon that "threatened the existence of the Russian state," according to Russian ambassador Alexander Trofimov, who spoke at the UN's nuclear non-proliferation conference earlier this month. Days after beginning what the Kremlin refers to as a "special military operation" in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin put Russia's nuclear forces on high alert, escalating concerns that the country would use its arsenal there. Also Read: Canada: Weeks after Pope's visit, a prominent cardinal named in a sexual assault class lawsuit Recently, increased hostilities between Russia and Ukraine have centred on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Despite being under Russian management, the plant employs Ukrainians. On August 11, Moscow and Kyiv both accused the other of shelling the area around the facility. According to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, a "catastrophe" at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear reactor in southern Ukraine would put all of Europe in danger. Russian troops stormed the plant, which is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, at the beginning of March, not long after Moscow began its invasion of Ukraine. Zaporizhzhia has been the focus of several military operations since the end of July, with Moscow and Kyiv each blaming the other for the shelling. Last Thursday, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the fighting at the plant. Russia is allegedly utilising the factory as a base for potential strikes and to store weapons, claims Ukraine. (with inputs from agencies)

Ukraine nuclear plant standoff: No 'military need' to use nuclear arms in Ukraine, says Russia

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday threw Turkey's support behind Ukraine and warned of the danger of "another Chernobyl" disaster erupting at a nuclear power plant held by invading Russian forces.

The Turkish leader met his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, in Lviv just two weeks after flying to Sochi for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which the two sides pledged to boost economic cooperation.

But Erdogan told reporters that NATO member Turkey remained firmly on Ukraine's side in the conflict and would continue its diplomatic efforts to end the fighting.

"While continuing our efforts to find a solution, we remain on the side of our Ukrainian friends," Erdogan said.

His talks with Zelensky and visiting UN chief Antonio Guterres—both men's first since Russia's February invasion—came with global alarm rising about fighting that has raged around Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

The Russian-held facility has been experiencing days of shelling.

"We are worried. We do not want another Chernobyl," said the Turkish leader.

Erdogan only mentioned Putin once in his comments to reporters.

"We discussed the exchange of prisoners of war and our initiatives in this regard," Erdogan said.

"We will continue to talk about that with Putin."

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President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday threw Turkey's support behind Ukraine and warned of the danger of "another Chernobyl" disaster erupting at a nuclear power plant held by invading Russian forces.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday threw Turkey's support behind Ukraine and warned of the danger of "another Chernobyl" disaster erupting at a nuclear power plant held by invading Russian forces. The Turkish leader met his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, in Lviv just two weeks after flying to Sochi for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which the two sides pledged to boost economic cooperation. But Erdogan told reporters that NATO member Turkey remained firmly on Ukraine's side in the conflict and would continue its diplomatic efforts to end the fighting. "While continuing our efforts to find a solution, we remain on the side of our Ukrainian friends," Erdogan said. His talks with Zelensky and visiting UN chief Antonio Guterres—both men's first since Russia's February invasion—came with global alarm rising about fighting that has raged around Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The Russian-held facility has been experiencing days of shelling. "We are worried. We do not want another Chernobyl," said the Turkish leader. Erdogan only mentioned Putin once in his comments to reporters. "We discussed the exchange of prisoners of war and our initiatives in this regard," Erdogan said. "We will continue to talk about that with Putin." 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.

Turkey stands ‘on the side of Ukraine’, says Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Ukraine has called out India over Russian oil and Ukraine's foreign minister said 'India is buying blood-tainted oil'. Meanwhile India's foreign minister has defended the move to buy Russian oil.

Ukraine's foreign minister says 'India buying blood-tainted oil'

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Russian Vladimir Putin has revived a Soviet-era ‘Mother Heroine’ award. What exactly is the ‘Mother Heroine’ award and who are eligible for it? Know all about it here.

What is Soviet-era ‘Mother Heroine’ award that Putin has revived in Russia?

Russia is all set to launch the Vostok 2022 military exercises later this month. Under the annual cooperation plan, the Chinese people's liberation army will send troops to Russia to participate in military drills.

China to participate in Russia military drills, claims India will participate too

Has Ukraine started a shadow war against Russia? Moscow is blaming "saboteurs" for the attacks on Russian bases in Crimea. Today, Russian hackers targeted Ukraine's nuclear power operator. Palki Sharma tells you more about the proxy battles.

Gravitas: Ukraine begins a shadow war against Russia

While the death toll from the Russian bombardment of Kharkiv city in northeastern Ukraine rose on Thursday, the nearly six-month-long war rages on without pause. Ukrainian forces claimed to have repulsed a Russian onslaught in the southern province of Kherson.

Later on Thursday, in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will have meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In addition to addressing the threat to world food supply and the potential for a catastrophe at Europe's largest nuclear power facility, which Russian forces have seized, they will talk about how to find a political end to the war.

The war has driven millions of people from their homes, claimed hundreds of lives, and widened the geopolitical chasm between the West and Russia, whose stated objectives are to demilitarise its neighbour and defend Russian-speaking populations. Oleksiy Arestovych, a presidential advisor for Ukraine, said in a video: "Russian forces have achieved only minimal advances, and in some cases, we have advanced, since last month. What we are seeing is a 'strategic deadlock'."&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nasas-gigantic-sls-moon-rocket-a-practice-for-future-mars-mission-507987">&nbsp;In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission</a>

Seven people were killed and 16 were injured when Russian forces shelled a residential section of Kharkiv, the second-largest city in Ukraine, on Wednesday evening, according to the Ukrainian Emergencies Service. Zelensky posted on the Telegram chat service, "This is a sneaky and unscrupulous strike on civilians with no reason."

According to the regional governor, Thursday's pre-dawn shelling of Oleh Synehubov, another residential district of Kharkiv, resulted in one fatality and 18 injuries.&nbsp;

29 "occupiers" were reportedly killed by Ukrainian forces near the village of Bilohirka, northeast of Kherson, according to the southern district of the Operational Command of the Ukrainian armed forces. Artillery, armoured vehicles, and a military supply depot were also reportedly destroyed. Fears of a catastrophe have been stoked by fighting near the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, and Guterres has stated he wants a demilitarised zone to be formed.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

While the death toll from the Russian bombardment of Kharkiv city in northeastern Ukraine rose on Thursday, the nearly six-month-long war rages on without pause.

While the death toll from the Russian bombardment of Kharkiv city in northeastern Ukraine rose on Thursday, the nearly six-month-long war rages on without pause. Ukrainian forces claimed to have repulsed a Russian onslaught in the southern province of Kherson. Later on Thursday, in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will have meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In addition to addressing the threat to world food supply and the potential for a catastrophe at Europe's largest nuclear power facility, which Russian forces have seized, they will talk about how to find a political end to the war. The war has driven millions of people from their homes, claimed hundreds of lives, and widened the geopolitical chasm between the West and Russia, whose stated objectives are to demilitarise its neighbour and defend Russian-speaking populations. Oleksiy Arestovych, a presidential advisor for Ukraine, said in a video: "Russian forces have achieved only minimal advances, and in some cases, we have advanced, since last month. What we are seeing is a 'strategic deadlock'." Also Read: In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission Seven people were killed and 16 were injured when Russian forces shelled a residential section of Kharkiv, the second-largest city in Ukraine, on Wednesday evening, according to the Ukrainian Emergencies Service. Zelensky posted on the Telegram chat service, "This is a sneaky and unscrupulous strike on civilians with no reason." According to the regional governor, Thursday's pre-dawn shelling of Oleh Synehubov, another residential district of Kharkiv, resulted in one fatality and 18 injuries. 29 "occupiers" were reportedly killed by Ukrainian forces near the village of Bilohirka, northeast of Kherson, according to the southern district of the Operational Command of the Ukrainian armed forces. Artillery, armoured vehicles, and a military supply depot were also reportedly destroyed. Fears of a catastrophe have been stoked by fighting near the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, and Guterres has stated he wants a demilitarised zone to be formed. (with inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war has reached 'strategic deadlock' ahead of UN chief's visit

The United Nations Secretary General António Guterres is all set to meet with the Ukrainian and the Turkish President. The trio will address concerns over several issues including that of grain exports and also of what is happening at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

UN Chief to meet Turkiye, Ukrainian President, trilateral meet to discuss grain exports

India and China will be taking part in military drills that will be hosted by Russia. These are the first such exercises that are being held by Russia since the invasion of Ukraine in the month of February.

First Russian military drills since Ukraine war, Belarus, Tajikistan among participating nations

Russian War Games: Exercises involve airborne troops, long-range bombers

India's Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) on Wednesday signed a deal with global oil major ExxonMobil Corp for deepwater exploration in India's eastern and western coasts.&nbsp;

The signing of the Heads of Agreement (HoA) ends ONGC's long-drawn search for a&nbsp;global oil major to partner with in an attempt&nbsp;to quickly monetise its reserves.

India's 53 per cent basin area is offshore. However, it requires sophisticated machinery and manpower to extract the oil from such difficult terrains. ONGC is a giant in the industry but still lags in technological prowess, which Exxon is expected to bring onto the table, under the new partnership.&nbsp;

According to the stock exchange filing, ONGC and&nbsp;ExxonMobil will put their attention on the deepwater reserves in India's&nbsp;East and West coasts.

"The collaboration areas focus on the Krishna Godavari and Cauvery Basins in the eastern offshore and the Kutch-Mumbai region in the western offshore. There has been a scientific exchange of exploration data in the last few years, which has led to this partnership," read the statement.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-oil-corp-unit-to-open-50-fuel-stations-in-sri-lanka-to-battle-crisis-504839">Indian Oil Corp unit to open 50 fuel stations in Sri Lanka to battle crisis</a>

Meanwhile, ExxonMobil India in its statement said,&nbsp;“It’s an exciting opportunity to collaborate with ONGC. Great things happen when the right people collaborate." It added that 25 per cent of the ExxonMobil brain power is currently engaged in evaluating Indian deepwater. "ExxonMobil is geared up to take this collaboration to the next level.”

It is pertinent to note that India is the world's third-largest importer and consumer of oil. More than 85 per cent of the country's oil demands are met by other countries, which puts a tremendous strain on the exchequer.

However, ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, India has been purchasing cheaper oil from Russia, much to the chagrin of the western world.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-oil-is-expensive-in-india-and-what-the-government-could-do-365515">Why oil is expensive in India, and what the government could do</a>

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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&nbsp;

India's Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) on Wednesday signed a deal with global oil major ExxonMobil Corp for deepwater exploration in India's eastern and western coasts.

India's Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) on Wednesday signed a deal with global oil major ExxonMobil Corp for deepwater exploration in India's eastern and western coasts. The signing of the Heads of Agreement (HoA) ends ONGC's long-drawn search for a global oil major to partner with in an attempt to quickly monetise its reserves. India's 53 per cent basin area is offshore. However, it requires sophisticated machinery and manpower to extract the oil from such difficult terrains. ONGC is a giant in the industry but still lags in technological prowess, which Exxon is expected to bring onto the table, under the new partnership. According to the stock exchange filing, ONGC and ExxonMobil will put their attention on the deepwater reserves in India's East and West coasts. "The collaboration areas focus on the Krishna Godavari and Cauvery Basins in the eastern offshore and the Kutch-Mumbai region in the western offshore. There has been a scientific exchange of exploration data in the last few years, which has led to this partnership," read the statement. Read more: Indian Oil Corp unit to open 50 fuel stations in Sri Lanka to battle crisis Meanwhile, ExxonMobil India in its statement said, “It’s an exciting opportunity to collaborate with ONGC. Great things happen when the right people collaborate." It added that 25 per cent of the ExxonMobil brain power is currently engaged in evaluating Indian deepwater. "ExxonMobil is geared up to take this collaboration to the next level.” It is pertinent to note that India is the world's third-largest importer and consumer of oil. More than 85 per cent of the country's oil demands are met by other countries, which puts a tremendous strain on the exchequer. However, ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, India has been purchasing cheaper oil from Russia, much to the chagrin of the western world. Read more: Why oil is expensive in India, and what the government could do (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian oil giant ONGC partners up with ExxonMobil for deepwater exploration

Repeated shelling at Europe's largest nuclear power plant has scared the world. Zelensky said that Zaporizhzhia 'catastrophe' would threaten Europe. UN warned of 'grave' crisis amid violence near plant.

Is Europe staring at a nuclear disaster? | Ukraine holds disaster response drills

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky called for the destruction of a bridge linking Russia to Crimea. Russian bases and Crimea have been attacked in recent weeks.

Ukraine says Kerch bridge is an 'illegal', must go 'voluntary or not'

Russia alleged sabotage after two separate explosions were reported in the key areas of Crimea, forcing evacuations. Kyiv has hinted at special military unit's involvement.

Russia-Ukraine war: Explosions at Crimea depot prompt thousands to evacuate

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