The war in Ukraine has led to energy and food crisis around the world. The crisis has been especially harsh on Europe where gas prices have surged by nearly 30% in two days.

Europe: Gas prices surge by 30% in 2 days; Zelensky accuses Russia of imposing 'price terror'

In pics - Volunteers rebuild Ukrainian village to beats of techno music

The IMF has slashed its global growth forecasts for 2022-2023 and raised its projections for inflation, warning that the risks to the economic outlook are overwhelmingly tilted to the downside.

IMF: Ukraine war pushing world economy to the brink of recession

The military-industrial complex is perhaps more complex than it sounds. Companies in this circle are ultimately owned by the same people. These companies own shares in one another in a way that doesn't even look illegal (as legal as it may be).

It is interesting that some of these companies even transcend different territories. Recently the main reaction of the western countries has been to ship weapons to Ukraine no matter how much it made sense to make peace rather than war. While Ukraine continues to be turned into a wasteland, the continuation of war is profitable to the companies that manufacture weapons for the US, the UK and even Poland,&nbsp;who have been active in this direction.&nbsp;

I thought to share a few of these companies and how they relate to one another so that we at least have an idea of the real winners in the continuation of the Ukraine war.

Let us take the number one weapons manufacturer for the US being Lockheed Martin company for instance. Lockheed manufactures the famous anti-tank Javeline missiles that have been donated by the US to Ukraine. Around March this year Lockheed Martin was faced with increasing production of these in-demand weapons. The shareholders of this Lockheed include the following investors;

BlackRock Inc

Vanguard Group

But then who owns BlackRock? The shareholders of Blackrock include Vanguard Group. Well, who owns Vanguard Group you ask? The shareholders of Vanguard group include Blackrock Inc. Quite a matrix.

Interestingly also the number one weapon manufacturer in the UK is BAE Systems Plc whose shareholders also include BlackRock above, Capital Group company etc.

Other shareholders of Vanguard include JP Morgan, Apple, Microsoft, Wellington Management etc. These companies, therefore, have an indirect financial interest in the US supply of weapons to Ukraine.&nbsp;

By the way Wellington Management's shareholders include Temasek Company which solely belongs to the Singapore Government (Ministry of Finance). So far being among two public entities that I have come across in this complex the second being UK government with 30% stake in Leonardo UK Ltd which also manufactures weapons for the UK. By the way, Temasek also owns shares in Blackrock Inc and is the fifth highest shareholder. So whether the UK sends weapons to Ukraine or the US sends weapons to Ukraine Temasek (Singapore Government) still makes profit. Holdings companies for Wellington Management include Apple Inc, Microsoft, Pfizer etc. Yes you read&nbsp;right, Pfizer.&nbsp;

Did you know that Coca-Cola company belongs to both Vanguard Co (8.1%) and Blackrock Inc (6.4%) who are heavy investors in weapons manufacturing?&nbsp;

Well as was always the case,&nbsp;any opportunity to supply weapons is a profitable&nbsp;to the military-industrial complex. 2022 alone has seen revenue in this business of up to $19.5 billion. So we can only hope that is not enough incentive to perpetuate the Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

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The military-industrial complex is perhaps more complex than it sounds. Companies in this circle are ultimately owned by the same people. These companies own shares in one another in a way that doesn't even look illegal (as legal as it may be).

The military-industrial complex is perhaps more complex than it sounds. Companies in this circle are ultimately owned by the same people. These companies own shares in one another in a way that doesn't even look illegal (as legal as it may be). It is interesting that some of these companies even transcend different territories. Recently the main reaction of the western countries has been to ship weapons to Ukraine no matter how much it made sense to make peace rather than war. While Ukraine continues to be turned into a wasteland, the continuation of war is profitable to the companies that manufacture weapons for the US, the UK and even Poland, who have been active in this direction. I thought to share a few of these companies and how they relate to one another so that we at least have an idea of the real winners in the continuation of the Ukraine war. Let us take the number one weapons manufacturer for the US being Lockheed Martin company for instance. Lockheed manufactures the famous anti-tank Javeline missiles that have been donated by the US to Ukraine. Around March this year Lockheed Martin was faced with increasing production of these in-demand weapons. The shareholders of this Lockheed include the following investors; BlackRock Inc Vanguard Group But then who owns BlackRock? The shareholders of Blackrock include Vanguard Group. Well, who owns Vanguard Group you ask? The shareholders of Vanguard group include Blackrock Inc. Quite a matrix. Interestingly also the number one weapon manufacturer in the UK is BAE Systems Plc whose shareholders also include BlackRock above, Capital Group company etc. Other shareholders of Vanguard include JP Morgan, Apple, Microsoft, Wellington Management etc. These companies, therefore, have an indirect financial interest in the US supply of weapons to Ukraine. By the way Wellington Management's shareholders include Temasek Company which solely belongs to the Singapore Government (Ministry of Finance). So far being among two public entities that I have come across in this complex the second being UK government with 30% stake in Leonardo UK Ltd which also manufactures weapons for the UK. By the way, Temasek also owns shares in Blackrock Inc and is the fifth highest shareholder. So whether the UK sends weapons to Ukraine or the US sends weapons to Ukraine Temasek (Singapore Government) still makes profit. Holdings companies for Wellington Management include Apple Inc, Microsoft, Pfizer etc. Yes you read right, Pfizer. Did you know that Coca-Cola company belongs to both Vanguard Co (8.1%) and Blackrock Inc (6.4%) who are heavy investors in weapons manufacturing? Well as was always the case, any opportunity to supply weapons is a profitable to the military-industrial complex. 2022 alone has seen revenue in this business of up to $19.5 billion. So we can only hope that is not enough incentive to perpetuate the Ukraine conflict. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer) 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 ×

Military-industrial complex, the ultimate beneficiary of Ukraine conflict arms supply

Russian natural gas giant Gazprom said on Monday (July 25) that it is cutting gas deliveries through Nord Stream pipeline to 33 million cubic metres a day from Wednesday. This is 20 per cent of the pipeline's capacity. Nord Stream supplies gas to Europe. The state-owned company said that it was stopping operations of one of last two operating turbines because of &nbsp;"technical condition of the engine". Gazprom said that supplies from Portovaya compressor station will be slashed on Wednesday after 7 am Moscow time.

The announcement has elicited reaction from Europe with Germany saying there was no technical jurisdiction for Gazprom's announcement.

"According to the information we have there is no technical reason for a reduction of deliveries," a German economy ministry spokeswoman told AFP.

German group Siemens energy has been charged with maintenance of the turbine. Siemens said in a statement to AFP that there was "no link between the turbine and the gas cuts that have been implemented or announced".

Latest step from Gazprom has come after restoration of gas supply to Europe via Nord Stream last week. The supply was restored after 10 days of maintenace.

Germany is heavily dependent on Russian gas. It has accused Moscow of using gas as a weapon to exert political pressure. Other countries in the West have also alleged that Russia is trying to shoot back after economic sanctions were imposed on it in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine.

Gazprom cut flows to Germany via the Nord Stream 1 pipeline under the Baltic Sea in recent weeks, blaming the absence of a Siemens gas turbine that was undergoing repairs in Canada.

Earlier Monday, Gazprom said it had received paperwork related to the delayed delivery of the turbine but pointed out a number of issues remained, including those relating to EU and UK sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian natural gas giant Gazprom said on Monday (July 25) that it is cutting gas deliveries through Nord Stream pipeline to 33 million cubic metres a day from Wednesday.

Russian natural gas giant Gazprom said on Monday (July 25) that it is cutting gas deliveries through Nord Stream pipeline to 33 million cubic metres a day from Wednesday. This is 20 per cent of the pipeline's capacity. Nord Stream supplies gas to Europe. The state-owned company said that it was stopping operations of one of last two operating turbines because of "technical condition of the engine". Gazprom said that supplies from Portovaya compressor station will be slashed on Wednesday after 7 am Moscow time. The announcement has elicited reaction from Europe with Germany saying there was no technical jurisdiction for Gazprom's announcement. "According to the information we have there is no technical reason for a reduction of deliveries," a German economy ministry spokeswoman told AFP. German group Siemens energy has been charged with maintenance of the turbine. Siemens said in a statement to AFP that there was "no link between the turbine and the gas cuts that have been implemented or announced". Latest step from Gazprom has come after restoration of gas supply to Europe via Nord Stream last week. The supply was restored after 10 days of maintenace. Germany is heavily dependent on Russian gas. It has accused Moscow of using gas as a weapon to exert political pressure. Other countries in the West have also alleged that Russia is trying to shoot back after economic sanctions were imposed on it in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine. Gazprom cut flows to Germany via the Nord Stream 1 pipeline under the Baltic Sea in recent weeks, blaming the absence of a Siemens gas turbine that was undergoing repairs in Canada. Earlier Monday, Gazprom said it had received paperwork related to the delayed delivery of the turbine but pointed out a number of issues remained, including those relating to EU and UK sanctions. (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 ×

Gazprom to cut down gas deliveries through Nord Stream

Amid skepticism that the recent Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Odessa might jeopardize the un-brokered grain deal. Kyiv and the United Nations have now offered a fresh ray of hope saying that the export of grains could start within days.

Ukraine works to resume grain exports, should begin again within days

Russia is planning to hold big military exercise in the east thousands of miles away from where war in Ukraine is raging. The military exercise is planned for next month. The 'Vostok' exercises are slated to take place from August 30 to September 5.

They appear intended to send a message that Russia, despite the costly five-month war in Ukraine, remains focused on the defence of its entire territory and capable in military terms of sustaining "business as usual".

Russian military has emphasised in a statement that its capacity to hold drills remains unaffected. The statement said that no training activity had been cancelled and all necessary personnel, equipment and weapons will be supplied for the exercise.

"We draw your attention to the fact that only a part of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation is involved in the special military operation (in Ukraine), the number of which is quite sufficient to fulfil all the tasks set by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief," the statement said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/russia-says-it-will-quit-iss-after-2024-shows-plans-of-new-station-500883">Russia says it will quit ISS after 2024, shows plans of 'new station'</a>

Some foreign media were spreading false information about "some kind of alleged mobilisation activities", it added.

After its invasion of Ukraine on February 24, Russia has suffered heavy losses and it progress has been slow. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not ordered mobilisation of reserves. The reserves are estimated to include 2 million people.

CIA Director William Burns has said that about 15,000 Russian troops had been killed in Ukraine conflict. This is as many deaths as the Soviet army suffered during its decade-long occupation of Afghanistan in late seventies and eighties.

The upcoming military exercises have been planned to take place in the eastern military district. This includes part of Siberia. Headquarters of the eastern military district are in Khabarovsk, near the Chinese border.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia is planning to hold big military exercise in the east thousands of miles away from where war in Ukraine is raging. The military exercise is planned for next month.

Russia is planning to hold big military exercise in the east thousands of miles away from where war in Ukraine is raging. The military exercise is planned for next month. The 'Vostok' exercises are slated to take place from August 30 to September 5. They appear intended to send a message that Russia, despite the costly five-month war in Ukraine, remains focused on the defence of its entire territory and capable in military terms of sustaining "business as usual". Russian military has emphasised in a statement that its capacity to hold drills remains unaffected. The statement said that no training activity had been cancelled and all necessary personnel, equipment and weapons will be supplied for the exercise. "We draw your attention to the fact that only a part of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation is involved in the special military operation (in Ukraine), the number of which is quite sufficient to fulfil all the tasks set by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief," the statement said. Also Read | Russia says it will quit ISS after 2024, shows plans of 'new station' Some foreign media were spreading false information about "some kind of alleged mobilisation activities", it added. After its invasion of Ukraine on February 24, Russia has suffered heavy losses and it progress has been slow. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not ordered mobilisation of reserves. The reserves are estimated to include 2 million people. CIA Director William Burns has said that about 15,000 Russian troops had been killed in Ukraine conflict. This is as many deaths as the Soviet army suffered during its decade-long occupation of Afghanistan in late seventies and eighties. The upcoming military exercises have been planned to take place in the eastern military district. This includes part of Siberia. Headquarters of the eastern military district are in Khabarovsk, near the Chinese border. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia plans big military drills in the east next month

Russia wants to topple Volodymyr Zelensky's govt. Russian Finance Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that his country's goal is to bring a regime change in Ukraine. Palki Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: Russia says it wants to overthrow Volodymyr Zelensky's govt

The European unity against Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine crisis was always going to be tested to the hilt come winters. However, it seems like much before winter, European solidarity has collapsed.

According to multiple news sources, the proposal put forth by the European Union to cut gas use by 15 per cent in anticipation of possible Russian supply cuts, has been met with disapproval from member countries.

Give us a say or a veto power: EU member states

Reportedly, at least 12 of the 27 member states have raised questions regarding the proposal. France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Ireland, Portugal and Malta among other countries demanded the EU give the member nations a chance to present their opinion about the proposal, or perhaps even, a veto power.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that the EU had brought this proposition last Wednesday and asked the EU countries to use 15 per cent less gas, compared to their average over the last five years, from August to March.&nbsp;

The gas conundrum

As reported extensively by WION, ever since Russia closed the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, citing maintenance, the entire EU had gone into a fit. Russia and its state-owned gas company Gazprom even threatened to close the supply for good.

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-asks-countries-to-cut-gas-use-to-tackle-russian-blackmail-499302">EU asks countries to cut gas use to tackle Russian 'blackmail'</a>

However, after 10 days, the supply resumed but it still hasn't reached the pre-maintenance levels and is much below what Europe used to receive prior to the war broke out.&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nord-stream-1-supply-to-eu-to-be-cut-further-says-russias-gazprom-500800">Nord Stream 1 supply to EU to be cut further, says Russia's Gazprom</a>

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European countries have tried to present a united front against Russia, however, whenever the situation has turned a little pear-shaped, they have backtracked. 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.&nbsp;Last year Russia provided a whopping 40 per cent of Europe's total consumption of natural gas.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The European unity against Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine crisis was always going to be tested to the hilt come winters. However, it seems like much before winter, European solidarity has collapsed.

The European unity against Russia in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine crisis was always going to be tested to the hilt come winters. However, it seems like much before winter, European solidarity has collapsed. According to multiple news sources, the proposal put forth by the European Union to cut gas use by 15 per cent in anticipation of possible Russian supply cuts, has been met with disapproval from member countries. Give us a say or a veto power: EU member states Reportedly, at least 12 of the 27 member states have raised questions regarding the proposal. France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Ireland, Portugal and Malta among other countries demanded the EU give the member nations a chance to present their opinion about the proposal, or perhaps even, a veto power. It is pertinent to note that the EU had brought this proposition last Wednesday and asked the EU countries to use 15 per cent less gas, compared to their average over the last five years, from August to March. The gas conundrum As reported extensively by WION, ever since Russia closed the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, citing maintenance, the entire EU had gone into a fit. Russia and its state-owned gas company Gazprom even threatened to close the supply for good. Read More: EU asks countries to cut gas use to tackle Russian 'blackmail' However, after 10 days, the supply resumed but it still hasn't reached the pre-maintenance levels and is much below what Europe used to receive prior to the war broke out. WATCH: Nord Stream 1 supply to EU to be cut further, says Russia's Gazprom European countries have tried to present a united front against Russia, however, whenever the situation has turned a little pear-shaped, they have backtracked. 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. Last year Russia provided a whopping 40 per cent of Europe's total consumption of natural gas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

No unity in European Union? Member nations oppose EU's gas curb proposal

Britain said Monday it had reluctantly agreed to host next year's Eurovision song contest, after organisers said there was no prospect of the pop extravaganza going ahead in war-torn Ukraine.

The BBC will now produce the world's biggest live music event, taking in performers from across Europe and Central Asia as well as Israel and Australia, in a UK city yet to be determined.

Ukraine won this year's contest, held in Italy, ahead of Britain's entry in second place. For the past month, it had insisted it could host next year's despite the Russian invasion.

But after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) ruled that out on security grounds, the government in Kyiv acquiesced to a UK-hosted event with a strongly Ukrainian flavour.

Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko said that after "several rounds" of discussion, the EBU had given assurances of an "extremely high integration of Ukrainian context and presenters".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that in phone talks last week with President Volodymyr Zelensky, they "agreed that wherever Eurovision 2023 is held, it must celebrate the country and people of Ukraine".&nbsp;

"As we are now hosts, the UK will honour that pledge directly -– and put on a fantastic contest on behalf of our Ukrainian friends," Johnson tweeted.

Johnson's spokesman added it had been the soon-to-depart prime minister's "strong wish" for Ukraine to host the 2023 edition, and found it "deeply regrettable" that was no longer possible.

In May, Ukrainian folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra won in Turin, on a wave of support for their country following Russia's invasion.&nbsp;

Its lead singer Oleh Psiuk, whose bubblegum-pink bucket hat helped make him one of the breakout stars of the night, thanked Britain for stepping in.

"We hope Eurovision 2023 will have a Ukrainian flavour and celebrate our beautiful, unique culture," he said in a statement to Britain's PA news agency.&nbsp;

"We, in turn, will make all efforts to help Ukraine win next year as well, so that Eurovision 2024 can take place in a peaceful country."

<h2>- Cities wait in wings -</h2>

&nbsp;

By convention, the winning country hosts the kitsch celebration of music the following year. Britain last hosted it in 1998.

But last month, the EBU said Ukraine could not guarantee the safety of more than 10,000 people involved in the production and a further 30,000 fans expected to attend.

The broadcasting union stuck to its line despite protests from Zelensky's government, and rejected one proposal to shift the contest to a border location within Ukraine, away from the frontlines.

The EBU said Ukraine was still guaranteed a place in the 2023 grand final along with the organisation's "top five" countries: Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

The other finalists will be selected via national votes by viewers and judges, typically ranging from mainstream pop to the rather odd.

BBC director-general Tim Davie said it was "of great regret" that Ukraine could not host next year.

"The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture alongside showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity," he said.

But the cash-strapped BBC also has to contend with footing a multi-million-euro bill for staging the show, unless the UK government stumps up extra support.

The broadcaster said it aimed to select a UK host venue by the autumn, in collaboration with the EBU.

Whichever city wins will need to have an international airport, a sizeable conference venue and thousands of hotel rooms.

London, Manchester and Sheffield all said they were ready to step in.&nbsp;Glasgow had previously expressed interest.

This year's contest vaulted Britain's second-placed entrant Sam Ryder to stardom.&nbsp;

Last month, before another global TV audience, Ryder performed his quirky song "Space Man" in front of Buckingham Palace as part of Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II.

Britain said Monday it had reluctantly agreed to host next year's Eurovision song contest, after organisers said there was no prospect of the pop extravaganza going ahead in war-torn Ukraine.

Britain said Monday it had reluctantly agreed to host next year's Eurovision song contest, after organisers said there was no prospect of the pop extravaganza going ahead in war-torn Ukraine. The BBC will now produce the world's biggest live music event, taking in performers from across Europe and Central Asia as well as Israel and Australia, in a UK city yet to be determined. Ukraine won this year's contest, held in Italy, ahead of Britain's entry in second place. For the past month, it had insisted it could host next year's despite the Russian invasion. But after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) ruled that out on security grounds, the government in Kyiv acquiesced to a UK-hosted event with a strongly Ukrainian flavour. Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko said that after "several rounds" of discussion, the EBU had given assurances of an "extremely high integration of Ukrainian context and presenters". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that in phone talks last week with President Volodymyr Zelensky, they "agreed that wherever Eurovision 2023 is held, it must celebrate the country and people of Ukraine". "As we are now hosts, the UK will honour that pledge directly -– and put on a fantastic contest on behalf of our Ukrainian friends," Johnson tweeted. Johnson's spokesman added it had been the soon-to-depart prime minister's "strong wish" for Ukraine to host the 2023 edition, and found it "deeply regrettable" that was no longer possible. In May, Ukrainian folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra won in Turin, on a wave of support for their country following Russia's invasion. Its lead singer Oleh Psiuk, whose bubblegum-pink bucket hat helped make him one of the breakout stars of the night, thanked Britain for stepping in. "We hope Eurovision 2023 will have a Ukrainian flavour and celebrate our beautiful, unique culture," he said in a statement to Britain's PA news agency. "We, in turn, will make all efforts to help Ukraine win next year as well, so that Eurovision 2024 can take place in a peaceful country." - Cities wait in wings - By convention, the winning country hosts the kitsch celebration of music the following year. Britain last hosted it in 1998. But last month, the EBU said Ukraine could not guarantee the safety of more than 10,000 people involved in the production and a further 30,000 fans expected to attend. The broadcasting union stuck to its line despite protests from Zelensky's government, and rejected one proposal to shift the contest to a border location within Ukraine, away from the frontlines. The EBU said Ukraine was still guaranteed a place in the 2023 grand final along with the organisation's "top five" countries: Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain. The other finalists will be selected via national votes by viewers and judges, typically ranging from mainstream pop to the rather odd. BBC director-general Tim Davie said it was "of great regret" that Ukraine could not host next year. "The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture alongside showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity," he said. But the cash-strapped BBC also has to contend with footing a multi-million-euro bill for staging the show, unless the UK government stumps up extra support. The broadcaster said it aimed to select a UK host venue by the autumn, in collaboration with the EBU. Whichever city wins will need to have an international airport, a sizeable conference venue and thousands of hotel rooms. London, Manchester and Sheffield all said they were ready to step in. Glasgow had previously expressed interest. This year's contest vaulted Britain's second-placed entrant Sam Ryder to stardom. Last month, before another global TV audience, Ryder performed his quirky song "Space Man" in front of Buckingham Palace as part of Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II.

UK to host 2023 Eurovision as Ukraine bows out

The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the transport of food grains in the middle of the crisis was welcomed by nations all around the world. With the supply chain suffering due to the invasion, a number of countries faced food shortages and it looked like there will some respite after almost five months of constant conflict. However, the attack of the port of Odessa heightened tensions between the two countries once again. Ukraine has criticised the attacks, but they believe that they will be able to resume the grain exports according to the agreed deal this week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-number-of-covid-hit-australians-in-hospital-as-omicron-surges-500502" hreflang="en">Australia registers record number of COVID-19 cases as Omicron surges</a>

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky was vocal in his criticism of the attack as he termed it “barbarism” on their end. But the Russian defence ministry denied any involvements.

Following the attack, there were doubts on whether Ukraine will be able to fulfil their commitments, but a senior official said that the first shipments are expected to leave this week.

"We believe that over the next 24 hours we will be ready to work to resume exports from our ports. We are talking about the port of Chornomorsk, it will be the first, then there will be Odessa, then the port of Pivdeny," deputy infrastructure minister Yuriy Vaskov told a news conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-ukraine-conflict-in-mind-taiwan-stages-chinese-invasion-war-games-500500">With Ukraine conflict in mind, Taiwan stages Chinese invasion war games</a>

Reports from Ukraine claimed that the Russian missiles targeted a granary near the Odessa port, but Kremlin made it clear that the attack was conducted keeping military targets in mind.

"They are in no way related to infrastructure that is used for the export of grain. This should not affect - and will not affect - the beginning of shipments," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the transport of food grains in the middle of the crisis was welcomed by nations all around the world. With the supply chain suffering due to the invasion, a number of countries faced food shortages and it looked like there will some respite after almost five months of constant conflict.

The agreement between Russia and Ukraine to allow the transport of food grains in the middle of the crisis was welcomed by nations all around the world. With the supply chain suffering due to the invasion, a number of countries faced food shortages and it looked like there will some respite after almost five months of constant conflict. However, the attack of the port of Odessa heightened tensions between the two countries once again. Ukraine has criticised the attacks, but they believe that they will be able to resume the grain exports according to the agreed deal this week. Also read | Australia registers record number of COVID-19 cases as Omicron surges Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky was vocal in his criticism of the attack as he termed it “barbarism” on their end. But the Russian defence ministry denied any involvements. Following the attack, there were doubts on whether Ukraine will be able to fulfil their commitments, but a senior official said that the first shipments are expected to leave this week. "We believe that over the next 24 hours we will be ready to work to resume exports from our ports. We are talking about the port of Chornomorsk, it will be the first, then there will be Odessa, then the port of Pivdeny," deputy infrastructure minister Yuriy Vaskov told a news conference. Also read | With Ukraine conflict in mind, Taiwan stages Chinese invasion war games Reports from Ukraine claimed that the Russian missiles targeted a granary near the Odessa port, but Kremlin made it clear that the attack was conducted keeping military targets in mind. "They are in no way related to infrastructure that is used for the export of grain. This should not affect - and will not affect - the beginning of shipments," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Ukraine looks to ship food grains this week despite attack on Odessa port

Taiwan on Monday (July 25) kicked off it largest military exercises. The exercise saw trench warfare and shoulder-launched Stinger missiles deployed against simulated Chinese attacks. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has heightened Taiwanese worries that China may invade it.

Taiwan, a democracy, is claimed by China as its own territory. China has not ruled out use of force to capture the island. China's military might far surpasses that of Taiwan.

The five-day 'Han Kuang' (Han Glory) war games have incorporated lessons from the European war this year, said Taiwan's defence ministry. There are simulations of 'all possible actions' China can take to invade Taiwan.

On Monday, reservists armed with machine guns ran into sandbagged trenches dug under a bridge before getting into firing position, in a drill aimed at blocking enemies from gaining access to the capital Taipei.&nbsp;

"The underground bunkers help cover the troops and ward off the enemy's strike forces," said Su Tzu-yun, a military expert at Taiwan's Institute for National Defence and Security Research. He was quoted by AFP.

"They are part of Ukraine's urban warfare."

He said that stinger missiles were also deployed in some high-rise buildings in the area. Stinger missiles are effective against helicopters and low-flying planes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan on Monday (July 25) kicked off it largest military exercises. The exercise saw trench warfare and shoulder-launched Stinger missiles deployed against simulated Chinese attacks.

Taiwan on Monday (July 25) kicked off it largest military exercises. The exercise saw trench warfare and shoulder-launched Stinger missiles deployed against simulated Chinese attacks. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has heightened Taiwanese worries that China may invade it. Taiwan, a democracy, is claimed by China as its own territory. China has not ruled out use of force to capture the island. China's military might far surpasses that of Taiwan. The five-day 'Han Kuang' (Han Glory) war games have incorporated lessons from the European war this year, said Taiwan's defence ministry. There are simulations of 'all possible actions' China can take to invade Taiwan. On Monday, reservists armed with machine guns ran into sandbagged trenches dug under a bridge before getting into firing position, in a drill aimed at blocking enemies from gaining access to the capital Taipei. "The underground bunkers help cover the troops and ward off the enemy's strike forces," said Su Tzu-yun, a military expert at Taiwan's Institute for National Defence and Security Research. He was quoted by AFP. "They are part of Ukraine's urban warfare." He said that stinger missiles were also deployed in some high-rise buildings in the area. Stinger missiles are effective against helicopters and low-flying planes. (With inputs from agencies)

With Ukraine conflict in mind, Taiwan stages Chinese invasion war games

In a recent update on Russia-Ukraine crisis, Ukraine has accused Russia of stealing grain. Meanwhile, Kyiv said, Grain exports preparation is underway despite the attack.

Ukraine accuses Russia of stealing grain; US delegation vows to ensure continuing support

A Hungarian camp offers refugee to Jewish families from Ukraine. Dairy and meat products are cooked separately in Kosher kitchen. Camp was set by Ukraine and Hungary's Jewish federations.

Hungarian camp offers refugee to Jewish families from Ukraine

Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September. Assistant to the governor of the Kherson region Sergiy Khlan told Ukrainian television that "we can say that the Kherson region will definitely be liberated by September, and all the occupiers' plans will fail." Following the delivery of long-range weaponry from the West, the Ukrainian army has recently begun regaining ground in the southern Kherson region.

Khlan stated, "We can say that a turning point has occurred on the battlefield. We see that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are prevailing in their most recent military operations. We see that our armed forces are advancing openly. We can say that we are switching from defensive to counteroffensive actions." He claimed that Ukrainian attacks on two strategically important bridges in the area, along with assaults on Russian command centres and arsenals, were part of the preparations for a ground onslaught.

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He further mentioned that Russian soldiers were having trouble deploying heavy weapons onto Kherson city and had not yet rebuilt the damaged Antonivka bridge. On March 3, Russian forces took Kherson, the principal city in the area. Following the beginning of Moscow's military action in Ukraine in late February, it was the country's first significant city to fall. The area, which is significant for Ukrainian agriculture, is situated close to the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia acquired in that year.

(with inputs from agencies)

<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=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September.

Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September. Assistant to the governor of the Kherson region Sergiy Khlan told Ukrainian television that "we can say that the Kherson region will definitely be liberated by September, and all the occupiers' plans will fail." Following the delivery of long-range weaponry from the West, the Ukrainian army has recently begun regaining ground in the southern Kherson region. Khlan stated, "We can say that a turning point has occurred on the battlefield. We see that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are prevailing in their most recent military operations. We see that our armed forces are advancing openly. We can say that we are switching from defensive to counteroffensive actions." He claimed that Ukrainian attacks on two strategically important bridges in the area, along with assaults on Russian command centres and arsenals, were part of the preparations for a ground onslaught. Also Read: Ever heard about bio-weapons that use DNA to kill specific person? They are reality now He further mentioned that Russian soldiers were having trouble deploying heavy weapons onto Kherson city and had not yet rebuilt the damaged Antonivka bridge. On March 3, Russian forces took Kherson, the principal city in the area. Following the beginning of Moscow's military action in Ukraine in late February, it was the country's first significant city to fall. The area, which is significant for Ukrainian agriculture, is situated close to the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia acquired in that year. (with inputs from agencies)

By September, Ukraine's Kherson region will be 'liberated' from Russia: Sergiy Khlan

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. In a recent update, Ukraine said, Russia attacked its port just a day after grain deal.

Russian missiles hit Ukrainian port city; Russia denies attack on Odessa

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. In a recent update, Kyiv said, Grain exports preparation is underway despite the attack.

Kyiv: Grain exports preparation underway despite the attack

On Sunday, North Korea echoed a claim made by Russia that the United States was producing biological weapons in Ukraine, which the UN rejected in March. Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, asserted in February that US policy was the “root cause of the Ukraine crisis”,&nbsp;and this month Kyiv severed diplomatic ties with North Korea after Pyongyang formally recognised two self-declared pro-Russian separatist territories in eastern Ukraine.

The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) claimed on Sunday that Washington had “set up many biological labs in tens of countries and regions, including Ukraine, in disregard of the international treaties,” citing actions that had been “detected” by Russia. In March, Moscow accused the United States of supporting biological weapons development research in Ukraine, which Russia invaded nearly five months earlier.

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The allegations that Ukraine had biological weapons production facilities were refuted by Washington and Kyiv, with the United States claiming that Moscow may employ similar strategies if the allegations were true. Additionally stated that the UN “was not aware of any biological weapons programme in Ukraine,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Disarmament Affairs, in March.

(with inputs from agencies)

<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=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

On Sunday, North Korea echoed a claim made by Russia that the United States was producing biological weapons in Ukraine, which the UN rejected in March. Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, asserted in February that US policy was the “root cause of the Ukraine crisis”, and this month Kyiv severed diplomatic ties with North Korea after Pyongyang formally recognised two self-declared pro-Russian separatist territories in eastern Ukraine.

On Sunday, North Korea echoed a claim made by Russia that the United States was producing biological weapons in Ukraine, which the UN rejected in March. Pyongyang, a close ally of Moscow, asserted in February that US policy was the “root cause of the Ukraine crisis”, and this month Kyiv severed diplomatic ties with North Korea after Pyongyang formally recognised two self-declared pro-Russian separatist territories in eastern Ukraine. The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) claimed on Sunday that Washington had “set up many biological labs in tens of countries and regions, including Ukraine, in disregard of the international treaties,” citing actions that had been “detected” by Russia. In March, Moscow accused the United States of supporting biological weapons development research in Ukraine, which Russia invaded nearly five months earlier. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn The allegations that Ukraine had biological weapons production facilities were refuted by Washington and Kyiv, with the United States claiming that Moscow may employ similar strategies if the allegations were true. Additionally stated that the UN “was not aware of any biological weapons programme in Ukraine,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Disarmament Affairs, in March. (with inputs from agencies)

North Korea claims that United States engaged in biological warfare in Ukraine

Top US officials have met Ukraine President Zelensky in Kyiv. Meanwhile, Russia has intensified shelling in Kharkiv. The US delegation also visited Irpin and Bucha.

US officials meet Ukraine President Zelensky in Kyiv; Russia intensifies shelling in Kharkiv

Boris Johnson has trained with Ukrainian troops. He adorned a camouflage jacket during the training. The outgoing PM also threw a grenade during the exercise.

Boris Johnson trains with Ukrainian troops, adorns camouflage jacket

'Russian missiles hit Odessa port just a day after grain deal,' says Ukraine

An Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti joined a Russian cosmonaut in a rare spacewalking show of unity recently amid tensions over Ukraine. Watch this report!

WION Fineprint | Italian, Russian share spacewalk amid tensions in Ukraine

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. In a recent update, Russia has denied attacking Odessa.

'Putin spitting in the face of the UN & Turkiye,' says Ukraine

It has been several months since the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been raging on and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Now, the US will provide more aid to Ukraine.

EU tweaks sanctions on Russia; The US to provide more aid to Ukraine

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were also present at the ceremony.

Ukraine, Russia sign grain deal: Deal to ease global food crisis?

On ground, Europe & Russia may be enemies, but 400 KMs above Earth onboard International Space Station, the rivalry is non-existent. On Thursday, an Italian & a Russian shared a spacewalk. Palki Sharma reports on this rare show of unity.

Gravitas: Russian & Italian share spacewalk amid tensions in Ukraine

Ukraine & Russia seal grain deal, American leaders welcome the deal

Ukraine & Russia agree to release blockaded grain exports

Ukraine-Russia agree on a grain deal: Turkiye & UN back deal in person

Russian and Ukrainian officials have signed a deal to allow grain exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports, potentially averting the threat of a catastrophic global food crisis.

Russia and Ukraine agree to release blockaded grain exports

Russia, Ukraine sign grain export deal in Turkiye

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