Ukrainians are fleeing Donbas as fighting intensifies between Russia and Ukraine. This comes at a time when the world is marking refugee day today.

World marks refugee day amid Ukraine war

Violence escalated in East Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion. While Kyiv awaits the EU's membership decision, Zelensky said that Russia is looking to intensify attacks on Ukraine.

As Kyiv awaits the EU's membership decision, Zelensky says Russia to intensify attacks on Ukraine

It has been more than 100 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Now, Ukraine President Zelensky awards troop members.

Ukraine President Zelensky awards troop members amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Russian media outlets broadcast images and videos of what they said were two US citizens captured while fighting for Ukraine. Video shows US nationals saying 'I am against War'.

Russian media releases videos of two US nationals captured by Russian forces

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller has partnered up with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in order to extend support to those fleeing Ukraine while Russia`s military operation in the country continues.

According to Deadline, in a dual post with the UN Refugees Instagram page, a picture was shared showing Stiller talking with UNHCR staff in Poland. In his caption, the actor mentioned how he`s learning, sharing stories, and offering support to those in need.

He said, "I`m here to learn, to share stories that illustrate the human impact of war and to amplify calls for solidarity. I hope you`ll follow along and share your own messages of support, for people who have fled their homes in Ukraine and for people who have been forced to flee all over the world. Everyone has the right to seek safety. Whoever, wherever, whenever."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/its-a-wrap-for-priyanka-chopra-starrer-series-citadel-co-starring-richard-madden-489717" hreflang="en">It's a wrap for Priyanka Chopra starrer series 'Citadel' co-starring Richard Madden</a>

As per Deadline, Stiller is now part of the list of celebs including Sean Penn, Angelina Jolie, and Mila Kunis, who have extended their help to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller has partnered up with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in order to extend support to those fleeing Ukraine while Russia`s military operation in the country continues.

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller has partnered up with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in order to extend support to those fleeing Ukraine while Russia`s military operation in the country continues. According to Deadline, in a dual post with the UN Refugees Instagram page, a picture was shared showing Stiller talking with UNHCR staff in Poland. In his caption, the actor mentioned how he`s learning, sharing stories, and offering support to those in need. He said, "I`m here to learn, to share stories that illustrate the human impact of war and to amplify calls for solidarity. I hope you`ll follow along and share your own messages of support, for people who have fled their homes in Ukraine and for people who have been forced to flee all over the world. Everyone has the right to seek safety. Whoever, wherever, whenever." Also read: It's a wrap for Priyanka Chopra starrer series 'Citadel' co-starring Richard Madden As per Deadline, Stiller is now part of the list of celebs including Sean Penn, Angelina Jolie, and Mila Kunis, who have extended their help to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

Ben Stiller partners with UN to extend support for those fleeing Ukraine

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg warned that the Russia-Ukraine war could last “for years”, and asked member countries to increase support, financially and militarily to Kyiv.

NATO chief warns Russia-Ukraine war might last long

After coming back from Kyiv, UK PM Boris Johnson pledged his support to Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion. He said that Putin's win would be 'catastrophic'.

UK PM Boris Johnson after returning from Kyiv: Putin win would be 'catastrophic'

Our top focus in this edition is the Russia Ukraine war. The Russian assault in Ukraine, its initial goal was to capture the capital city Kyiv, during the invasion's early days Russian forces occupied where many families were settled, but who were the most affected?

WION-VOA Co-Production: Ukrainians hope to rebuild destroyed homes after war with Russia ends

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the war-torn southern city of Mykolaiv on Saturday to meet the forces resisting the Russian military. This was the first time that Zelensky visited the city and during a small ceremony, he handed out medals to the soldiers who are currently taking shelter in an underground shelter. The President also posed for a number of selfies with the soldiers, according to a video posted on Telegram. The city has been facing Russian attacks since March, but the Ukrainian forces were able to restrict them to the outer edges of the southern city till now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-of-first-americans-captured-by-russian-forces-since-ukraines-invasion-telecasted-by-russian-tv-489414" hreflang="en">Watch | Russian TV shows videos of two US vets captured in Ukraine</a>

"Our brave men. Each one of them is working flat out," he said in the video posted on his official account on Telegram. "We will definitely hold out! We will definitely win!"

Zelensky also awarded medals to Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych and Governor Vitaliy Kim for their work in the last four months after visiting a hospital housing the local patients in Mykolaiv.

“Because you are heroic people, you saved the lives of everyone — both military and civilian. I want to wish you and your family and friends good health,” Zelensky said at the hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/which-are-european-union-candidate-countries-and-whats-their-status-now-489347">In pics-Which are EU candidate countries and what's their status now?</a>

The visit came just one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin once again justified the ongoing invasion of Ukraine and blamed the western countries for blaming their problems on Russia.

Mykolaiv is an important city for the Ukrainian forces as it is strategically placed between Mariupol and Odesa. There were multiple missile strikes at the city and in March, 37 people were killed when a missile completely destroyed a building, according to a report by Reuters.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the war-torn southern city of Mykolaiv on Saturday to meet the forces resisting the Russian military. This was the first time that Zelensky visited the city and during a small ceremony, he handed out medals to the soldiers who are currently taking shelter in an underground shelter.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the war-torn southern city of Mykolaiv on Saturday to meet the forces resisting the Russian military. This was the first time that Zelensky visited the city and during a small ceremony, he handed out medals to the soldiers who are currently taking shelter in an underground shelter. The President also posed for a number of selfies with the soldiers, according to a video posted on Telegram. The city has been facing Russian attacks since March, but the Ukrainian forces were able to restrict them to the outer edges of the southern city till now. Also read | Watch | Russian TV shows videos of two US vets captured in Ukraine "Our brave men. Each one of them is working flat out," he said in the video posted on his official account on Telegram. "We will definitely hold out! We will definitely win!" Zelensky also awarded medals to Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych and Governor Vitaliy Kim for their work in the last four months after visiting a hospital housing the local patients in Mykolaiv. “Because you are heroic people, you saved the lives of everyone — both military and civilian. I want to wish you and your family and friends good health,” Zelensky said at the hospital. Also read | In pics-Which are EU candidate countries and what's their status now? The visit came just one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin once again justified the ongoing invasion of Ukraine and blamed the western countries for blaming their problems on Russia. Mykolaiv is an important city for the Ukrainian forces as it is strategically placed between Mariupol and Odesa. There were multiple missile strikes at the city and in March, 37 people were killed when a missile completely destroyed a building, according to a report by Reuters. 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.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky visits war-torn city of Mykolaiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson paid tribute to Ukrainian soldiers killed in the conflict.

Boris Johnson meets Volodymyr Zelensky in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with Russia's business elite and said that Western sanctions mad and thoughtless. He also urged Russian Oligarchs to invest in Russia.

Putin speaks to Russia's business elite: 'Western sanctions mad and thoughtless'

Ukraine has received candidate status to join the EU as it moves one step closer to joining amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, full membership still to take years.

Ukraine moves one step closer to joining the EU but full membership still to take years

EU chief Ursula Von der Leyen has recommended candidate status for Ukraine. What is the next step in Ukraine's proposed accession to the EU? Will EU membership make a difference in the war? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: EU chief recommends candidate status for Ukraine

Russian&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;and Nobel Peace laureate Dmitry Muratov is auctioning his Nobel medal for Ukrainian refugees, distraught at the eradication of independent media in his country, where he says fewer and fewer people support Moscow's military campaign.

Muratov is the&nbsp;co-founder and long-time editor-in-chief of Novaya Gazeta, a newspaper critical of the Kremlin that was itself established in 1993 with money from former Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev's Nobel Peace Prize.

For years it defied tightening restrictions on dissenting media, but in March it finally suspended its online and print activities after it became a crime punishable by 15 years in jail to report anything on the conflict that veered from the government line.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-nothing-against-ukraine-joining-eu-putin-489203">Russia has 'nothing against' Ukraine joining EU, says Vladimir Putin</a>

"My country invaded another state, Ukraine. There are now 15.5 million refugees. We thought for a long time about what we could do and we thought that everyone should give away something dear to them, important to them," Muratov told Reuters in an interview.

Auctioning his golden medal would mean he shared in some way in the fate of refugees who had lost their mementoes and "their past", he said.

"Now they want to take away their future, but we must make sure that their future is preserved the most important thing we want to say and show is that human solidarity is necessary."

Muratov's medal is being sold by Heritage Auctions on June 20, World Refugee Day, with the support of the prize committee.

It had called the award to Muratov and Maria Ressa, a&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;from the Philippines, an endorsement of the right to free speech that was in jeopardy around the world.

Muratov dedicated his prize to six Novaya Gazeta&nbsp;journalists murdered for their work, among them some of the highest-profile critics of President Vladimir Putin.

Media Clampdown

He lamented the lack of a free media, and the severity of the state's crackdown on protest.

"The absence of real freedom of speech, of real exchange of opinions, of real freedom of expression is leading to the fact that people have no choice. They just have to believe what the state propagandists tell them," he said.

"There are no free media outlets. Rallies are actually banned, including in the regions. For any statement, an administrative or criminal case is initiated.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine moves one step closer to joining the EU but full membership still to take years

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"Independent journalism is impossible in modern Russia. Content delivery is possible, for example, through the YouTube platform. It is possible to deliver some content alternative to the state view through VPN services. But this is getting more and more difficult every day."

Nevertheless, he questioned research indicating that most&nbsp;Russians support the invasion.

"When they call you on the phone ... and ask: 'Do you support the actions of President Putin?' or 'Do you support the action of the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;army?' or 'Do you support the military operation in Ukraine?' - how does the person respond, do you think?

Muratov believes that in reality, support for the war, often shown by a display of a 'Z' from the Latin alphabet, is dwindling.

"If you walk through the streets of Moscow now, you will see that there are practically no 'Z's left on the streets."

Moscow says it sent troops into Ukraine to defuse a military threat and protect&nbsp;Russian-speakers from persecution, assertions that Kyiv and its Western allies say are a baseless pretext for an unprovoked war of acquisition.

"I see what people say to me in the streets," Muratov said. "I see what our readers are writing, and I understand that it's impossible to say Russia supports the invasion of Ukraine with one voice."

He said even the Kremlin acknowledged that 25-30% of the population that did not support the operation.

United Leadership

But Muratov said those who believed change may occur in Russia as a result of a split in the elite were mistaken.

"The powers-that-be have never been so united, never been so monolithic. People in power have nowhere to go: not Europe, not America, they are not allowed anywhere else. They are here. They are here like the crew of a submarine with no escape. And of course, they are united around the president."

He also questioned suggestions that&nbsp;Russians might turn against the authorities if their standard of living suffered from Western sanctions, saying they were more likely to evoke the 'can-do' spirit of those who survived the privations of World War Two.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-will-introduce-visas-for-russians-from-july-1-489090">No more free entry: Ukraine to launch visas for Russians from July 1, says Zelensky</a>

"Russia has arrived at the point where&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;President Putin will remain in power for as long as he sees fit - as he sees, it for the good of Russia. Whether he will be president or some kind of monarch, I don't know. But the tendency towards absolutism is absolutely obvious."

Asked how much he expected the medal to raise, Muratov said he had heard forecasts of $2 million or more, but had no real idea:

"The finale will be as unexpected for me as it is for you."

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Russian journalist and Nobel Peace laureate Dmitry Muratov is auctioning his Nobel medal for Ukrainian refugees, distraught at the eradication of independent media in his country, where he says fewer and fewer people support Moscow's military campaign.

Russian journalist and Nobel Peace laureate Dmitry Muratov is auctioning his Nobel medal for Ukrainian refugees, distraught at the eradication of independent media in his country, where he says fewer and fewer people support Moscow's military campaign. Muratov is the co-founder and long-time editor-in-chief of Novaya Gazeta, a newspaper critical of the Kremlin that was itself established in 1993 with money from former Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev's Nobel Peace Prize. For years it defied tightening restrictions on dissenting media, but in March it finally suspended its online and print activities after it became a crime punishable by 15 years in jail to report anything on the conflict that veered from the government line. Also read | Russia has 'nothing against' Ukraine joining EU, says Vladimir Putin "My country invaded another state, Ukraine. There are now 15.5 million refugees. We thought for a long time about what we could do and we thought that everyone should give away something dear to them, important to them," Muratov told Reuters in an interview. Auctioning his golden medal would mean he shared in some way in the fate of refugees who had lost their mementoes and "their past", he said. "Now they want to take away their future, but we must make sure that their future is preserved the most important thing we want to say and show is that human solidarity is necessary." Muratov's medal is being sold by Heritage Auctions on June 20, World Refugee Day, with the support of the prize committee. It had called the award to Muratov and Maria Ressa, a journalist from the Philippines, an endorsement of the right to free speech that was in jeopardy around the world. Muratov dedicated his prize to six Novaya Gazeta journalists murdered for their work, among them some of the highest-profile critics of President Vladimir Putin. Media Clampdown He lamented the lack of a free media, and the severity of the state's crackdown on protest. "The absence of real freedom of speech, of real exchange of opinions, of real freedom of expression is leading to the fact that people have no choice. They just have to believe what the state propagandists tell them," he said. "There are no free media outlets. Rallies are actually banned, including in the regions. For any statement, an administrative or criminal case is initiated. Watch | Ukraine moves one step closer to joining the EU but full membership still to take years "Independent journalism is impossible in modern Russia. Content delivery is possible, for example, through the YouTube platform. It is possible to deliver some content alternative to the state view through VPN services. But this is getting more and more difficult every day." Nevertheless, he questioned research indicating that most Russians support the invasion. "When they call you on the phone ... and ask: 'Do you support the actions of President Putin?' or 'Do you support the action of the Russian army?' or 'Do you support the military operation in Ukraine?' - how does the person respond, do you think? Muratov believes that in reality, support for the war, often shown by a display of a 'Z' from the Latin alphabet, is dwindling. "If you walk through the streets of Moscow now, you will see that there are practically no 'Z's left on the streets." Moscow says it sent troops into Ukraine to defuse a military threat and protect Russian-speakers from persecution, assertions that Kyiv and its Western allies say are a baseless pretext for an unprovoked war of acquisition. "I see what people say to me in the streets," Muratov said. "I see what our readers are writing, and I understand that it's impossible to say Russia supports the invasion of Ukraine with one voice." He said even the Kremlin acknowledged that 25-30% of the population that did not support the operation. United Leadership But Muratov said those who believed change may occur in Russia as a result of a split in the elite were mistaken. "The powers-that-be have never been so united, never been so monolithic. People in power have nowhere to go: not Europe, not America, they are not allowed anywhere else. They are here. They are here like the crew of a submarine with no escape. And of course, they are united around the president." He also questioned suggestions that Russians might turn against the authorities if their standard of living suffered from Western sanctions, saying they were more likely to evoke the 'can-do' spirit of those who survived the privations of World War Two. Also read | No more free entry: Ukraine to launch visas for Russians from July 1, says Zelensky "Russia has arrived at the point where Russian President Putin will remain in power for as long as he sees fit - as he sees, it for the good of Russia. Whether he will be president or some kind of monarch, I don't know. But the tendency towards absolutism is absolutely obvious." Asked how much he expected the medal to raise, Muratov said he had heard forecasts of $2 million or more, but had no real idea: "The finale will be as unexpected for me as it is for you." 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.

Pioneering Russian journalist sells Nobel Peace medal for Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin was slated to give the opening speech in Russia’s flagship economic forum on Friday, but it was delayed by hackers. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, it was a ‘denial of service’ attack from the hackers that was aimed at interrupting the internet services at the venue. Reuters reported that the hackers attacked the servers with bogus traffic that resulted in sluggish internet speeds. The speech from Putin did not start on time due to an issue with the connectivity at the venue and Kremlin confirmed that it was delayed by a little over 100 minutes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-elections-emmanuel-macron-ask-voters-for-solid-majority-in-polls-489300">French elections: Emmanuel Macron ask voters for 'solid majority' in polls</a>

Russia did not blame anyone for the attacks directly but according to the Reuters report, sources claimed that this can be a response from a group of "hacktivists" for the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

During the speech, Putin said that this is the "the era of the unipolar world" as he defended Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine once again at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

"When they won the Cold War, the US declared themselves God's own representatives on earth, people who have no responsibilities -- only interests. They have declared those interests sacred. Now it's one-way traffic, which makes the world unstable," Putin told the audience.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/orgy-at-a-military-barracks-british-paratroopers-banned-from-nato-deployment-489292" hreflang="en">'Orgy at a military barracks': British paratroopers banned from Nato deployment</a>

The ongoing crisis has already crossed 100 days in Ukraine and Putin said that the “special operation” has provided the West with an opportunity to put the blame for their problems on Russia.

"They live in the past on their own under their own delusions ... They think that ... they have won and then everything else is a colony, a back yard. And the people living there are second-class citizens."

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Russian President Vladimir Putin was slated to give the opening speech in Russia’s flagship economic forum on Friday, but it was delayed by hackers. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, it was a ‘denial of service’ attack from the hackers that was aimed at interrupting the internet services at the venue.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was slated to give the opening speech in Russia’s flagship economic forum on Friday, but it was delayed by hackers. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, it was a ‘denial of service’ attack from the hackers that was aimed at interrupting the internet services at the venue. Reuters reported that the hackers attacked the servers with bogus traffic that resulted in sluggish internet speeds. The speech from Putin did not start on time due to an issue with the connectivity at the venue and Kremlin confirmed that it was delayed by a little over 100 minutes. Also read | French elections: Emmanuel Macron ask voters for 'solid majority' in polls Russia did not blame anyone for the attacks directly but according to the Reuters report, sources claimed that this can be a response from a group of "hacktivists" for the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. During the speech, Putin said that this is the "the era of the unipolar world" as he defended Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine once again at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. "When they won the Cold War, the US declared themselves God's own representatives on earth, people who have no responsibilities -- only interests. They have declared those interests sacred. Now it's one-way traffic, which makes the world unstable," Putin told the audience. Also read | 'Orgy at a military barracks': British paratroopers banned from Nato deployment The ongoing crisis has already crossed 100 days in Ukraine and Putin said that the “special operation” has provided the West with an opportunity to put the blame for their problems on Russia. "They live in the past on their own under their own delusions ... They think that ... they have won and then everything else is a colony, a back yard. And the people living there are second-class citizens." 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.

Vladimir Putin forced to delay keynote speech after hackers crash internet

Europe's lab CERN said that they are planning to terminate all cooperation and contracts with Russia and Belarus over their roles in the war in Ukraine.

War in Ukraine: European lab CERN to halt cooperation with Russia

Due to Russian invasion of Ukraine, 1000 companies left Russia as per reports. However, some companies continue to remain despite sanctions.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Report: 1000 companies have quit Russia

European Commission has recommended that Ukraine should be granted European Union candidate status, a first step towards the membership for the war-torn country.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Top EU leaders back Kyiv membership bid

Which are European Union candidate countries and what's their status now?

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Google Russia has filed for bankruptcy. However, Google says it will continue free services. Even YouTube in Russia will stay online for now.

Google Russia files for bankruptcy but will continue free services

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (June 17) said that Russia had 'nothing against' Ukraine joining the European Union (EU). His words came on the same day European Commission recommended granting Ukraine a candidate status in the EU. Putin was speaking at Russia's annual economic showcase, the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

"We have nothing against it. It's their sovereign decision to join economic unions or not... It's their business, the business of the Ukrainian people," said Putin.

Russia is currently invading Ukraine. Putin has in past expressed Russia's fierce opposition to Ukraine joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation&nbsp;(NATO). Such a scenario has been deemed a 'security threat' by Moscow.

But "as far as their economic integration is concerned, it is their choice", Putin said.

"The EU is not a military alliance, unlike NATO," he said.

Watch | Gravitas: Is Poland Russia's next target?

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The Russian president, however, said he believed that if Ukraine went ahead with joining the EU it would "turn into a semi-colony" of Western countries.

"That's my opinion," he said.

Russia not cause of global issues, says Putin

During his speech, Putin defended Russia by saying global economic problems were not caused by the Russian invasion.

"What is happening is not the result of recent months, much less the result of a special military operation that Russia is conducting in the Donbas," Putin said referring to the predominantly Russia-speaking region of Eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;

"The rising prices, inflation, the problem with foods, prices for fuel.. are the result of systematic mistakes in the economic policy of the current US administration and European bureaucracy," Putin said in televised remarks at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-germany-italy-romania-leaders-back-ukraine-membership-bid-during-crucial-kyiv-visit-488906">France, Germany, Italy, Romania back Ukraine's EU membership bid during crucial Kyiv visit</a>

Moscow's military action became a "lifeline" for Western countries "that allows them to blame their own miscalculations on others, in this case, on Russia,"&nbsp;he added.

Gas prices were also on the rise Friday, exacerbated by the decision by Russian energy giant Gazprom to slash deliveries to Europe, citing repair works.&nbsp;

Putin said that high energy prices "have been observed since the third quarter (of last year), long before the start of our operation in Donbas", adding that the price hikes were also the result of Europe's "failed energy policy".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (June 17) said that Russia had 'nothing against' Ukraine joining the European Union (EU). His words came on the same day European Commission recommended granting Ukraine a candidate status in the EU.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (June 17) said that Russia had 'nothing against' Ukraine joining the European Union (EU). His words came on the same day European Commission recommended granting Ukraine a candidate status in the EU. Putin was speaking at Russia's annual economic showcase, the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. "We have nothing against it. It's their sovereign decision to join economic unions or not... It's their business, the business of the Ukrainian people," said Putin. Russia is currently invading Ukraine. Putin has in past expressed Russia's fierce opposition to Ukraine joining North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Such a scenario has been deemed a 'security threat' by Moscow. But "as far as their economic integration is concerned, it is their choice", Putin said. "The EU is not a military alliance, unlike NATO," he said. Watch | Gravitas: Is Poland Russia's next target? × The Russian president, however, said he believed that if Ukraine went ahead with joining the EU it would "turn into a semi-colony" of Western countries. "That's my opinion," he said. Russia not cause of global issues, says Putin During his speech, Putin defended Russia by saying global economic problems were not caused by the Russian invasion. "What is happening is not the result of recent months, much less the result of a special military operation that Russia is conducting in the Donbas," Putin said referring to the predominantly Russia-speaking region of Eastern Ukraine. "The rising prices, inflation, the problem with foods, prices for fuel.. are the result of systematic mistakes in the economic policy of the current US administration and European bureaucracy," Putin said in televised remarks at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum. Also Read | France, Germany, Italy, Romania back Ukraine's EU membership bid during crucial Kyiv visit Moscow's military action became a "lifeline" for Western countries "that allows them to blame their own miscalculations on others, in this case, on Russia," he added. Gas prices were also on the rise Friday, exacerbated by the decision by Russian energy giant Gazprom to slash deliveries to Europe, citing repair works. Putin said that high energy prices "have been observed since the third quarter (of last year), long before the start of our operation in Donbas", adding that the price hikes were also the result of Europe's "failed energy policy". (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 has 'nothing against' Ukraine joining EU, says Vladimir Putin

Three Americans have been reported missing in Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion. The US says it is working hard to verify these reports. Two American veterans were fighting in the Ukraine war.

3 Americans reported missing in Ukraine: The US says working hard to verify reports

Leaders of four European nations are in Ukraine. Talks over Ukraine's EU membership will be held today. Germany, France, Italy and Romania are backing Kyiv.

Is Ukraine inching towards its European Union dream? Talks over Ukraine's EU membership today

Drone footage revealed what was once a bustling tram depot in Kharkiv's northwestern outskirts, but is now a tram 'graveyard' after Russia started a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine: Drone footage of damaged Tram station at Kharkiv

European leaders have travelled to Kyiv. They pledged their support to Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine's EU bid has remained in focus.

European leaders travel to Kyiv as they pledge their support amid the ongoing Russian invasion

Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the UK's chief of defence staff, said Russia has strategically lost the war in Ukraine. He added, Vladimir Putin had used 25% of his army power for only tiny gains.

'Russia has strategically lost the war,' says UK armed forces chief

It has been more than 100 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine started and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Now, Ambulance teams rescue soldiers amid intense fighting in Eastern Ukraine.

Intense fighting in Eastern Ukraine: Ambulance teams rescue soldiers

The European Union is expected to decide soon whether to recommend that Ukraine be granted candidate status for EU membership.

European Union recommends Ukraine candidacy

France has not received any Russian natural gas through pipeline since June 15, said GRTgaz, a network operator. The development has followed Russian gas giant Gazprom's warning earlier this week about cutting delivery of gas to Europe. Gazprom maintains that reduction in supply is due to repair work, but the move is widely perceived to be a political one.

Experts have been quoted in media reports saying that Russia is seeking to put pressure on allies of Ukraine.

France is dependent on Russia for 17 per cent of its natural gas.

Supplies had already been reduced by 60 percent since the beginning of this year, sending prices soaring.

But GRTgaz said there was no risk to French supplies currently, with reserves at 56 percent capacity compared with 50 percent in June normally.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday returned from Ukraine. This was his first visit to Ukraine since Russian invasion. Macron was accompanied by Italian PM Mario Draghi, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.&nbsp;

The European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended a 'candidate' status for Ukraine in the European Union. Russia is fiercely opposed to co-operation between Ukraine and Europe.

In the run-up to the invasion Russian President Vladimir Putin had expressed his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO.

(With inputs from agencies)

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France has not received any Russian natural gas through pipeline since June 15, said GRTgaz, a network operator. The development has followed Russian gas giant Gazprom's warning earlier this week about cutting delivery of gas to Europe.

France has not received any Russian natural gas through pipeline since June 15, said GRTgaz, a network operator. The development has followed Russian gas giant Gazprom's warning earlier this week about cutting delivery of gas to Europe. Gazprom maintains that reduction in supply is due to repair work, but the move is widely perceived to be a political one. Experts have been quoted in media reports saying that Russia is seeking to put pressure on allies of Ukraine. France is dependent on Russia for 17 per cent of its natural gas. Supplies had already been reduced by 60 percent since the beginning of this year, sending prices soaring. But GRTgaz said there was no risk to French supplies currently, with reserves at 56 percent capacity compared with 50 percent in June normally. French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday returned from Ukraine. This was his first visit to Ukraine since Russian invasion. Macron was accompanied by Italian PM Mario Draghi, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended a 'candidate' status for Ukraine in the European Union. Russia is fiercely opposed to co-operation between Ukraine and Europe. In the run-up to the invasion Russian President Vladimir Putin had expressed his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO. (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 ×

France no longer receiving Russian gas via pipelines, says network operator 

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended Ukraine be formally named a "candidate" for joining the EU. "Yes, Ukraine should be welcomed as a candidate country - this is based on the understanding that good work has been done but important work also remains to be done," Ursula von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

Ursula von der Leyen backed the EU candidacy for Ukraine as she said that Ukrainians were ready to die to deepen their ties to the European Union.&nbsp;

"We all know that Ukrainians are ready to die for the European perspective. We want them to live with us for the European dream," von der Leyen told reporters.&nbsp;

The bid was supposed to be approved by all 27 member states to get finalised. The move could open up a years-long path toward joining the bloc.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-seek-support-from-tech-firms-ukraines-president-volodymyr-zelensky-appears-as-hologram-in-paris-489027">To seek support from tech firms, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky appears as hologram in Paris</a>&nbsp;

While responding to the backing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday praised a decision.&nbsp;

"It's the first step on the EU membership path that'll certainly bring our victory closer," Zelensky wrote on social media, adding that he was "grateful" to EU chief and "each EC member for a historic decision".&nbsp;

Here's Russia's reaction

Russia's foreign ministry accused Brussels of "manipulating"&nbsp;Ukraine.&nbsp;"We see how for many years the Western community has been manipulating the idea of some kind of involvement of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;in their integration structures," ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian spy posing as a Brazilian national caught in the Netherlands

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A day before, during their crucial visit to Kyiv on Thursday, the European leaders had backed Ukraine's bid to be accepted as a candidate for the European Union membership.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron told a joint press conference with Italian and German leaders that "all four of us support the status of immediate candidate for accession."&nbsp;

Macron, Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi arrived in Ukraine by train in a show of support for the war-torn nation. They were later joined in Kyiv by Romania's President Klaus Iohannis.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was present during the press conference, had promised the nation was ready to put in the work to become a fully-fledged EU member.&nbsp;

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Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended Ukraine be formally named a "candidate" for joining the EU. "Yes, Ukraine should be welcomed as a candidate country - this is based on the understanding that good work has been done but important work also remains to be done," Ursula von der Leyen said.

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended Ukraine be formally named a "candidate" for joining the EU. "Yes, Ukraine should be welcomed as a candidate country - this is based on the understanding that good work has been done but important work also remains to be done," Ursula von der Leyen said. Ursula von der Leyen backed the EU candidacy for Ukraine as she said that Ukrainians were ready to die to deepen their ties to the European Union. "We all know that Ukrainians are ready to die for the European perspective. We want them to live with us for the European dream," von der Leyen told reporters. The bid was supposed to be approved by all 27 member states to get finalised. The move could open up a years-long path toward joining the bloc. ALSO READ | To seek support from tech firms, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky appears as hologram in Paris While responding to the backing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday praised a decision. "It's the first step on the EU membership path that'll certainly bring our victory closer," Zelensky wrote on social media, adding that he was "grateful" to EU chief and "each EC member for a historic decision". Here's Russia's reaction Russia's foreign ministry accused Brussels of "manipulating" Ukraine. "We see how for many years the Western community has been manipulating the idea of some kind of involvement of Ukraine in their integration structures," ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies. WATCH | Russian spy posing as a Brazilian national caught in the Netherlands × A day before, during their crucial visit to Kyiv on Thursday, the European leaders had backed Ukraine's bid to be accepted as a candidate for the European Union membership. French President Emmanuel Macron told a joint press conference with Italian and German leaders that "all four of us support the status of immediate candidate for accession." Macron, Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi arrived in Ukraine by train in a show of support for the war-torn nation. They were later joined in Kyiv by Romania's President Klaus Iohannis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was present during the press conference, had promised the nation was ready to put in the work to become a fully-fledged EU member. 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.

'Manipulation': Russia slams European Union move to give 'candidate status' to Ukraine

European Commission to propose Kyiv's EU membership, a glimmer of hope for Ukraine?

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