Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the 'Ghost of Kyiv' was making the rounds because of his spectacular airborne skills as a fighter pilot. Watch this report to know more.

The legend of the Ghost of Kyiv: How the 'Ghost of Kyiv' legend was born

Russian forces have stolen grain from the areas of Ukraine they occupy, Ukraine's deputy agriculture minister said recently. However, Kremlin denied the grain theft claims. For more on this, we're joined by Maximilian Hess, Fellow, foreign policy research institute.

Ukraine-Russia crisis: Ukraine accuses Russia of grain theft

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidhPta1oEwUxoj" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has shared an image of a pilot wearing a black visor and oxygen mask, who appears to be in the cockpit of his MiG-29 fighter jet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pilot in the image is said to be the same 'Ghost of Kyiv', the Ukrainian pilot who's assumed to be a myth. Reports claimed&nbsp;that he had shot down at least ten Russian jets during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ivan-fedorov-mayor-of-ukrainian-city-abducted-by-russian-troops-461462">Ivan Fedorov, mayor of Ukrainian city abducted by Russian troops</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid escalating crisis, he quickly became a symbol of resistance after the story of his bravery emerged during&nbsp;Moscow's "military operation" in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Facebook post, the general staff of the Ukrainian armed forces wrote, "'Hello, Russian villain, I'm coming for your soul!' – the Ghost of Kyiv."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Details, specifications of the image and identity of the pilot has not been revealed as the picture just shows a person in the cockpit of a fighter jet, with face entirely covered by a black visor and oxygen mask. 'Ghost of Kyiv' is written on the left side of the image.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp; |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prevent-him-from-being-killed-or-captured-zelensky-appeals-to-mothers-of-russian-soldiers-461474">'Prevent him from being killed or captured': Zelensky appeals to mothers of Russian soldiers</a></strong></p>

<p>The situation in Ukraine is deteriorating with each day passing with reports of multiple casualties and massive loss&nbsp;of property due to Russian shelling.</p>

<p>The conflict has also led to a refugee crisis as people are leaving&nbsp;Ukrainian cities to save their lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, Ukraine has managed to resist the Russian invasion and claimed to have killed many Russian soldiers. During the conflict, Ukraine has also said that it has shot down multiple Russian aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If intel reports are to be believed, Russia had almost 1,200 combat aircraft before hostilities began. On the other hand, Ukraine had just 124. The's no official statement on the current status and number of aircraft on both sides.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p>Before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, US intelligence had predicted a blistering assault by Moscow that would quickly mobilize the vast Russian air power that its military assembled in order to dominate Ukraine's skies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But so far, the world has seen Moscow acting far more delicately with its airpower, so much so that US officials can't exactly explain what's driving Russia's apparent risk-averse behaviour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Ground Report from Brovary: Russian forces bombarded cities across Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>


The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has shared an image of a pilot wearing a black visor and oxygen mask, who appears to be in the cockpit of his MiG-29 fighter jet.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has shared an image of a pilot wearing a black visor and oxygen mask, who appears to be in the cockpit of his MiG-29 fighter jet. The pilot in the image is said to be the same 'Ghost of Kyiv', the Ukrainian pilot who's assumed to be a myth. Reports claimed that he had shot down at least ten Russian jets during the Russia-Ukraine conflict. WATCH | Ivan Fedorov, mayor of Ukrainian city abducted by Russian troops Amid escalating crisis, he quickly became a symbol of resistance after the story of his bravery emerged during Moscow's "military operation" in Ukraine. In the Facebook post, the general staff of the Ukrainian armed forces wrote, "'Hello, Russian villain, I'm coming for your soul!' – the Ghost of Kyiv." Details, specifications of the image and identity of the pilot has not been revealed as the picture just shows a person in the cockpit of a fighter jet, with face entirely covered by a black visor and oxygen mask. 'Ghost of Kyiv' is written on the left side of the image. ALSO READ | 'Prevent him from being killed or captured': Zelensky appeals to mothers of Russian soldiers The situation in Ukraine is deteriorating with each day passing with reports of multiple casualties and massive loss of property due to Russian shelling. The conflict has also led to a refugee crisis as people are leaving Ukrainian cities to save their lives. So far, Ukraine has managed to resist the Russian invasion and claimed to have killed many Russian soldiers. During the conflict, Ukraine has also said that it has shot down multiple Russian aircraft. If intel reports are to be believed, Russia had almost 1,200 combat aircraft before hostilities began. On the other hand, Ukraine had just 124. The's no official statement on the current status and number of aircraft on both sides. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. × Before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, US intelligence had predicted a blistering assault by Moscow that would quickly mobilize the vast Russian air power that its military assembled in order to dominate Ukraine's skies. But so far, the world has seen Moscow acting far more delicately with its airpower, so much so that US officials can't exactly explain what's driving Russia's apparent risk-averse behaviour. WATCH | WION Ground Report from Brovary: Russian forces bombarded cities across Ukraine × Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Is that 'Ghost of Kyiv'? Ukraine shares image of pilot who is 'flying for soul' of Russian 'villain'

<p>'Ghost of Kyiv', a Ukrainian fight pilot known to have shot down nearly 40 Russian fighter jets has died in battle, as per a report in The Times of London. The Ukrainian pilot who gained fame for his bravery in the wake of Russian invasion of Ukraine which started on February 24 this year.</p>

<p>The identity of 'Ghost of Kyiv' has also been revealed in the report. The Times of London reported tha Major Stepan Tarabalka.</p>

<p>Media reports say that Major Tarabalka's fighter jet was shot down on March 13 when he was tackling overwhelming number of enemy forces. Major Tarabalka's goggles and helmet are now going to be auctioned.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-says-russia-using-troll-farms-to-spread-disinformation-about-the-ukraine-conflict-475306">Britain says Russia using 'troll farms' to spread disinformation about the Ukraine conflict</a></strong></p>

<p>"People call him the Ghost of Kyiv. And rightly so — this UAF ace dominates the skies over our capital and country, and has already become a nightmare for invading Russian aircrafts," tweeted official account of Ukraine government on February 22 this year, highlighting the bravery of Major Traabalka.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">People call him the Ghost of Kyiv. And rightly so — this UAF ace dominates the skies over our capital and country, and has already become a nightmare for invading Russian aircrafts. <a href="https://t.co/lngfaMN01I">pic.twitter.com/lngfaMN01I</a></p>
— Ukraine / Україна (@Ukraine) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ukraine/status/1497834538843660291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Major Tarabalka was declared to have shot down 6 Russian fighter jets on the first day of the war.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>The Times reported that Stepan Tarabalka was born in Korolivka, a small village in western Ukraine. He hailed froma working class family. It was his dream to become a fighter pilot since his childhood.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


'Ghost of Kyiv', a Ukrainian fight pilot known to have shot down nearly 40 Russian fighter jets has died in battle, as per a report in The Times of London. The Ukrainian pilot who gained fame for his bravery in the wake of Russian invasion of Ukraine which started on February 24 this year.

'Ghost of Kyiv', a Ukrainian fight pilot known to have shot down nearly 40 Russian fighter jets has died in battle, as per a report in The Times of London. The Ukrainian pilot who gained fame for his bravery in the wake of Russian invasion of Ukraine which started on February 24 this year. The identity of 'Ghost of Kyiv' has also been revealed in the report. The Times of London reported tha Major Stepan Tarabalka. Media reports say that Major Tarabalka's fighter jet was shot down on March 13 when he was tackling overwhelming number of enemy forces. Major Tarabalka's goggles and helmet are now going to be auctioned. Also Read | Britain says Russia using 'troll farms' to spread disinformation about the Ukraine conflict "People call him the Ghost of Kyiv. And rightly so — this UAF ace dominates the skies over our capital and country, and has already become a nightmare for invading Russian aircrafts," tweeted official account of Ukraine government on February 22 this year, highlighting the bravery of Major Traabalka. People call him the Ghost of Kyiv. And rightly so — this UAF ace dominates the skies over our capital and country, and has already become a nightmare for invading Russian aircrafts. pic.twitter.com/lngfaMN01I — Ukraine / Україна (@Ukraine) February 27, 2022 × Major Tarabalka was declared to have shot down 6 Russian fighter jets on the first day of the war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × The Times reported that Stepan Tarabalka was born in Korolivka, a small village in western Ukraine. He hailed froma working class family. It was his dream to become a fighter pilot since his childhood. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

'Ghost of Kyiv' killed in fighting, has shot down 40 Russian jets

A deal led by the United Nations and the International Red Cross has begun to ease the ordeal of the most destructive siege of war in Ukraine. Roughly 100 civilians were evacuated from the besieged Azovstal steel plant in eastern Ukrainian city of Mariupol.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Civilians evacuated from plant bunkers, Pope condemns destruction of Mariupol

Hollywood acclaimed actress Angelina Jolie, who is a special envoy for the UN refugee agency visited Ukraine's Lviv and met children & displaced families. She hurriedly left a railway station amidst air-raid sirens.

Amid Russia-Ukraine tensions, Hollywood acclaimed actress Angelina Jolie meets children & displaced families

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, US house speaker Nancy Pelosi embarked on an unannounced trip to Kyiv. She met with Ukraine President Zelensky.

US House speaker Nancy Pelosi meets Ukraine President Zelensky in Kyiv

It has been several weeks 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, Evacuation is underway in Mariupol.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Ukrainians head to safety after ceasefire ordeal

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the EU is all set to propose a phased ban on Russian oil. However, Hungary is expected to resist oil ban.

EU to propose a phased ban on Russian oil amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Germany was long criticized for its approach to the Russian aggression in Ukraine but setting aside the geopolitical fears it finally agreed to supply heavy weapons to Ukraine. Our principal correspondent Siddhant Sibbal who is tracking Indian prime minister's visit there gets us more details.

Ukraine invasion: Germany changes approach towards Russian aggression

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Pope Francis renews call for humanitarian corridor

Russia Ukraine war crisis: Pope condemns destruction of Mariupol

A report by a think tank has exposed the West's doublespeak. It suggests that the US and EU continued to import oil from Russia despite the attack on Ukraine.

Report by a think tank: US & EU import oil from Russia despite attack on Ukraine

<p>Ukrainian soldiers were quoted by news agency AFP to say that a group of 20 civillians are leaving the besieged steel factory in Mariupol. The Azovstal Steelworks complex is the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in Mariupol. Ukrainian soldiers, along with citizens are holed up inside the factory. Russia has already declared that it has control of the important port city.</p>

<p>"Twenty civilians, women and children... have been transferred to a suitable place and we hope that they will be evacuated to Zaporizhzhia, on territory controlled by Ukraine," said Sviatoslav Palamar, deputy commander of the Azov regiment. He was quoted by AFP.</p>

<p>They were still going through the rubble searching for civilians to rescue after a night of Russian bombardment there, he added, in a video posted on Telegram.</p>

<p>Earlier Saturday, a correspondent from Russia's TASS news agency reported from the city that 25 civilians -- including six children younger than 14 -- had quit the site.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghost-of-kyiv-killed-in-fighting-after-shooting-down-40-russian-jets-475309">'Ghost of Kyiv' killed in fighting, has shot down 40 Russian jets</a></strong><br />
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"All night, the enemy artillery bombarded the site," Palamar added.</p>

<p>"The ceasefire that should have started at 6:00 am (0300 GMT) didn't start until 11:00 am. Since then, the two sides have respected it," he added.</p>

<p>"The evacuation convoy we had been expecting at 6:00 am only arrived at 6:25 pm.</p>

<p>"The Azov regiment is still clearing the rubble to get civilians out," said Palamar. "We hope this procedure will continue that we will manage to evacuate all the civilians."</p>

<p>Palamar said that they were not trying to evacuate the wounded to Ukrainian-held territory.</p>

<p>There is a maze of Soviet-era underground tunnels underneath Azovstal steelworks. Several hundred Ukrainian soldiers and civillians have taken shelter in these tunnels.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's presidency said on Friday that the evacuation of some civilians from had been planned for that day.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian soldiers were quoted by news agency AFP to say that a group of 20 civillians are leaving the besieged steel factory in Mariupol. The Azovstal Steelworks complex is the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in Mariupol.

Ukrainian soldiers were quoted by news agency AFP to say that a group of 20 civillians are leaving the besieged steel factory in Mariupol. The Azovstal Steelworks complex is the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in Mariupol. Ukrainian soldiers, along with citizens are holed up inside the factory. Russia has already declared that it has control of the important port city. "Twenty civilians, women and children... have been transferred to a suitable place and we hope that they will be evacuated to Zaporizhzhia, on territory controlled by Ukraine," said Sviatoslav Palamar, deputy commander of the Azov regiment. He was quoted by AFP. They were still going through the rubble searching for civilians to rescue after a night of Russian bombardment there, he added, in a video posted on Telegram. Earlier Saturday, a correspondent from Russia's TASS news agency reported from the city that 25 civilians -- including six children younger than 14 -- had quit the site. Also Read | 'Ghost of Kyiv' killed in fighting, has shot down 40 Russian jets "All night, the enemy artillery bombarded the site," Palamar added. "The ceasefire that should have started at 6:00 am (0300 GMT) didn't start until 11:00 am. Since then, the two sides have respected it," he added. "The evacuation convoy we had been expecting at 6:00 am only arrived at 6:25 pm. "The Azov regiment is still clearing the rubble to get civilians out," said Palamar. "We hope this procedure will continue that we will manage to evacuate all the civilians." Palamar said that they were not trying to evacuate the wounded to Ukrainian-held territory. There is a maze of Soviet-era underground tunnels underneath Azovstal steelworks. Several hundred Ukrainian soldiers and civillians have taken shelter in these tunnels. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Ukraine's presidency said on Friday that the evacuation of some civilians from had been planned for that day. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict: 20 civillians leave besieged steel factory in Mariupol

Ukraine-Russia war: Angelina Jolie visits Ukraine's Lviv, meets children & displaced families

The European space agency is ending cooperation with Russia on three missions to the moon. This comes as Russia continues its assault on Ukraine. On the other hand, Moscow has announced that it will be quitting the International space station.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Europe cancels joint moon missions with Russia

Russia has intensified the attacks on Ukraine and stepped up shelling in Eastern & Southern Ukraine. Zelensky vowed to rebuild the destroyed Odessa airport runway.

Ukraine war: Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, shelling continues in Kharkiv

Sweden has claimed that a Russian plane briefly violated its airspace on Friday. In a statement, Swedish Defence minister, Peter Hultqvist said, "It is totally unacceptable to violate Swedish airspace. This action is unprofessional."

Ukraine-Russia war update: Sweden alleges Russian plane violated airspace

<p>Swedish defence officials said on Saturday that a Russian reconnaissance plane violated Sweden's airspace briefly on Friday. It is notable that Sweden is mulling to join North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) after Russian invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"A Russian AN-30 propeller plane violated Swedish airspace on Friday evening," the Swedish defence ministry said in a statement, adding that its teams had followed the incident and photographed it.</p>

<p>The plane was flying east of Bornholm before it headed towards Swedish territory, said the ministry. Bornholm is a Danish island in the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is totally unacceptable to violate Swedish airspace," public television SVT quoted Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist as saying.</p>

<p>"This action is unprofessional and given the general security situation very inappropriate. Swedish sovereignty must always be respected."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-army-damaged-1000-tanks-200-aircraft-2500-armored-vehicles-of-russian-forces-claims-zelensky-475357">Ukrainian army damaged 1,000 tanks, 200 aircraft, 2,500 armored vehicles of Russian forces, claims Zelensky</a></strong><br />
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NATO was formed by western powers to keep a check on Russia's influence in eastern Europe. NATO has since expanded eastwards. Russia sees NATO's expansion as a move against it. Russia is fierecely opposed to NATO expansion in what it considers its backyard from the Soviet era.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even before the invasion of Ukraine, Russian President had made it clear in no uncertain terms that he was opposed to Ukraine joining NATO. Ukraine in past, has indicated willingness to join NATO.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Swedish defence officials said on Saturday that a Russian reconnaissance plane violated Sweden's airspace briefly on Friday. It is notable that Sweden is mulling to join North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) after Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Swedish defence officials said on Saturday that a Russian reconnaissance plane violated Sweden's airspace briefly on Friday. It is notable that Sweden is mulling to join North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) after Russian invasion of Ukraine. "A Russian AN-30 propeller plane violated Swedish airspace on Friday evening," the Swedish defence ministry said in a statement, adding that its teams had followed the incident and photographed it. The plane was flying east of Bornholm before it headed towards Swedish territory, said the ministry. Bornholm is a Danish island in the Baltic Sea. "It is totally unacceptable to violate Swedish airspace," public television SVT quoted Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist as saying. "This action is unprofessional and given the general security situation very inappropriate. Swedish sovereignty must always be respected." Also Read | Ukrainian army damaged 1,000 tanks, 200 aircraft, 2,500 armored vehicles of Russian forces, claims Zelensky NATO was formed by western powers to keep a check on Russia's influence in eastern Europe. NATO has since expanded eastwards. Russia sees NATO's expansion as a move against it. Russia is fierecely opposed to NATO expansion in what it considers its backyard from the Soviet era. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Even before the invasion of Ukraine, Russian President had made it clear in no uncertain terms that he was opposed to Ukraine joining NATO. Ukraine in past, has indicated willingness to join NATO. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian reconnaissance plane violates Sweden's airspace

More and more countries have promised aid to Ukraine amid the Russian invasion. World leaders, politicians have been visiting Ukraine to show support. Meanwhile, the US, the UK, World Bank and others have promised financial, military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Here’s a look at what’s promised to Ukraine and what’s it getting.

Support for Ukraine: What the world has promised & what’s Kyiv getting | Russian invasion

Report by a think tank exposes West: US, EU import oil from Russia

Serbia has showcased its new Chinese missile system in a show of military might. This comes at a time when Russia has invaded Ukraine.

Serbia showcases new Chinese missile system in a show of military might

It has been several weeks 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.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Mariupol reels under Russian shelling as port city left bruised & battered

Russian invasion of Ukraine has entered third month now. From special operation to war, will Putin declare war against Ukraine? Watch UK's Defence Secretary's take on Ukraine conflict.

Will Putin declare war against Ukraine? Watch UK Defence Secretary speak on Ukraine conflict

<p>A Pentagon official said on Friday that Russian campaign to seize Donbas in Eastern Ukraine was behind schedule and was moving slowly. The official, quoted by Reuters, said that stiff resistance from Ukrainian soldiers and Russia's failure to capture Kyiv resulted in "slow and uneven progress" in Donbas.</p>

<p>"We believe that essentially what they're doing is continuing to set conditions for a sustained and larger and longer offensive," the official said.</p>

<p>The official said that this included a "doctrinal" approach of launching airstrikes and then artillery strikes at Ukraine positions, and only then attempting to move forward on the ground.</p>

<p>However, such strikes have not been as successful as Russians had hoped, according to the official. And this in turn has led to slow progress on ground.</p>

<p>In addition, "they're still a little wary of getting out ahead of their supply lines. They don't want to make the same mistakes that they've made in Kyiv," the official said.</p>

<p>Consequently, the official said, "We do believe in the sense that they're behind schedule and what they were trying to accomplish in the Donbas."</p>

<p>The official said the Pentagon believes the Russians "are at least several days behind where they wanted to be."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cruelty-and-depravity-us-blasts-putin-as-russia-carries-out-airstrikes-against-kyiv-475068">'Cruelty and depravity': US blasts Putin as Russia carries out airstrikes against Kyiv</a></strong></p>

<p>In their short-term goals, the Russians aim to capture territory to the east of an imaginary line between Kharkiv and Donetsk, battlefield analysts believe.</p>

<p>The Russians have 92 battalion tactical groups in the east and south of Ukraine now, with more poised on the Russian side of the border, according to the Pentagon.</p>

<p>But those BTGs are not necessarily full-strength after significant setbacks in the first weeks of the two-month-old war, the official said.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>The US and European allies are rushing heavy artillery into Ukraine to help with the defense, but given the logistics of moving scores of howitzers and the need for training of Ukraine forces to operate them, the new equipment is still mostly not at the front and engaged in the fight.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Pentagon official said on Friday that Russian campaign to seize Donbas in Eastern Ukraine was behind schedule and was moving slowly. The official, quoted by Reuters, said that stiff resistance from Ukrainian soldiers and Russia's failure to capture Kyiv resulted in "slow and uneven progress" in Donbas.

A Pentagon official said on Friday that Russian campaign to seize Donbas in Eastern Ukraine was behind schedule and was moving slowly. The official, quoted by Reuters, said that stiff resistance from Ukrainian soldiers and Russia's failure to capture Kyiv resulted in "slow and uneven progress" in Donbas. "We believe that essentially what they're doing is continuing to set conditions for a sustained and larger and longer offensive," the official said. The official said that this included a "doctrinal" approach of launching airstrikes and then artillery strikes at Ukraine positions, and only then attempting to move forward on the ground. However, such strikes have not been as successful as Russians had hoped, according to the official. And this in turn has led to slow progress on ground. In addition, "they're still a little wary of getting out ahead of their supply lines. They don't want to make the same mistakes that they've made in Kyiv," the official said. Consequently, the official said, "We do believe in the sense that they're behind schedule and what they were trying to accomplish in the Donbas." The official said the Pentagon believes the Russians "are at least several days behind where they wanted to be." Also Read | 'Cruelty and depravity': US blasts Putin as Russia carries out airstrikes against Kyiv In their short-term goals, the Russians aim to capture territory to the east of an imaginary line between Kharkiv and Donetsk, battlefield analysts believe. The Russians have 92 battalion tactical groups in the east and south of Ukraine now, with more poised on the Russian side of the border, according to the Pentagon. But those BTGs are not necessarily full-strength after significant setbacks in the first weeks of the two-month-old war, the official said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × The US and European allies are rushing heavy artillery into Ukraine to help with the defense, but given the logistics of moving scores of howitzers and the need for training of Ukraine forces to operate them, the new equipment is still mostly not at the front and engaged in the fight. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine conflict: Russia is 'behind schedule' in Donbas, says Pentagon official

The Russia-Ukraine war has entered its third month. All hopes were put behind the peace talks but even that seems to be faltering at this point. Even after multiple meetings, Ukraine and Russia are not able to come on the same page, they both have starkly different demands.

Heavy fighting continues across Ukraine as Russia-Ukraine war enters third month

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has triggered a global surge in food and fuel prices. It has driven up the cost of living across countries and now the International monetary fund report says that the economic spillover of the Russia Ukraine war may likely result in social unrest in Africa.

Ukraine-Russia war: Rising food prices stoke the risk of unrest in Africa

It has been 65 days since Russia invaded Ukraine and still there are no signs of a truce. Currently, the West is sending more weapons to Ukraine, but the question that arises here is, will arming Ukraine really help? To get more perspective, we're joined by James Schwemlein, Senior Director at Albright Stonebridge Group and Fred Weir - Russian Affairs Expert.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: What is West doing to end the war?

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>As the conflict continues to escalate, invading forces of Russia have been alleged to have stolen "several hundred thousand tonnes" of grain from areas under their control, media reports said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The allegations have been made by Ukraine’s deputy agriculture minister on Saturday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the war, there have been numerous claims and counter claims by both the parties. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/surprising-in-three-months-five-russian-oligarchs-found-dead-families-of-3-businessmen-killed-too-475202" hreflang="en">In three months, five Russian oligarchs found dead; families of 3 killed too</a></strong></p>

<p>Around 1.5 million tonnes of grain, which was stored in occupied territory, may have been stolen by Russian forces, said Taras Vysotskiy, while speaking to Ukrainian national TV. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday, Russia was accused of stealing grain in occupied territory by Ukraine’s foreign ministry. It said that the act has increased the threat to food security in the region. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In the last two weeks, grain theft has increased, said agriculture minister Mykola Solskyi. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia energy giant Gazprom lands record high profit of $29 billion in 2021</strong></p>

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<p>"I personally hear this from many silo owners in the occupied territory. This is outright robbery. And this is happening everywhere in occupied territory. There will soon be a wheat harvest in the south. But farmers in this situation may well say: 'Here are the keys to the tractor - go collect it yourself, if you want'," the ministry quoted Solskyi as saying. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The allegations have been denied by the Kremlin. It said it did not know where this information had come from. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. As the conflict continues to escalate, invading forces of Russia have been alleged to have stolen "several hundred thousand tonnes" of grain from areas under their control, media reports said. The allegations have been made by Ukraine’s deputy agriculture minister on Saturday. Since the beginning of the war, there have been numerous claims and counter claims by both the parties. Also Read: In three months, five Russian oligarchs found dead; families of 3 killed too Around 1.5 million tonnes of grain, which was stored in occupied territory, may have been stolen by Russian forces, said Taras Vysotskiy, while speaking to Ukrainian national TV. On Thursday, Russia was accused of stealing grain in occupied territory by Ukraine’s foreign ministry. It said that the act has increased the threat to food security in the region. In the last two weeks, grain theft has increased, said agriculture minister Mykola Solskyi. Watch: Russia energy giant Gazprom lands record high profit of $29 billion in 2021 "I personally hear this from many silo owners in the occupied territory. This is outright robbery. And this is happening everywhere in occupied territory. There will soon be a wheat harvest in the south. But farmers in this situation may well say: 'Here are the keys to the tractor - go collect it yourself, if you want'," the ministry quoted Solskyi as saying. The allegations have been denied by the Kremlin. It said it did not know where this information had come from. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Russian forces stole huge amount of grain from occupied territory, alleges Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia steps up assault in East Ukraine

<p>A British military update said on Saturday that Russia has been forced to merge and redeploy depleted units from failed advances in northeast Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Shortcomings in Russian tactical coordination remain. A lack of unit-level skills and inconsistent air support have left Russia unable to fully leverage its combat mass, despite localised improvements," the military tweeted.</p>

<p>"Russia hopes to rectify issues that have previously constrained its invasion by geographically concentrating combat power, shortening supply lines and simplifying command and control," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Euro zone inflation rises to 7.5%</strong></p>

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<p>Russia launched invasion of Ukraine on February 24. The forces advanced rapidly but the initial momentum did not sustain and Russia could not capture a single major Ukrainian city for a long time. Russian forces advansed towards Ukraine's capital Kyiv but did not capture it. Currently Russia only control of Mariupol in the south but even that city has a pocket defended by Ukrainian soldiers.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cruelty-and-depravity-us-blasts-putin-as-russia-carries-out-airstrikes-against-kyiv-475068">'Cruelty and depravity': US blasts Putin as Russia carries out airstrikes against Kyiv</a></strong></p>

<p>Western aid including weapons are arriving in Ukraine.</p>

<p>On Saturday (April 30) Russia said that its artillery had struck 389 Ukrainian targets overnight. These, said Russia included 35 control points, 15 arms and ammunition depots and more areas where Ukrainian troops and equipments were concentrated.</p>

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<p>Russia's defence ministry said that its missiles had hit four ammunition and fuel depots.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A British military update said on Saturday that Russia has been forced to merge and redeploy depleted units from failed advances in northeast Ukraine. "Shortcomings in Russian tactical coordination remain.

A British military update said on Saturday that Russia has been forced to merge and redeploy depleted units from failed advances in northeast Ukraine. "Shortcomings in Russian tactical coordination remain. A lack of unit-level skills and inconsistent air support have left Russia unable to fully leverage its combat mass, despite localised improvements," the military tweeted. "Russia hopes to rectify issues that have previously constrained its invasion by geographically concentrating combat power, shortening supply lines and simplifying command and control," it said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Euro zone inflation rises to 7.5% × Russia launched invasion of Ukraine on February 24. The forces advanced rapidly but the initial momentum did not sustain and Russia could not capture a single major Ukrainian city for a long time. Russian forces advansed towards Ukraine's capital Kyiv but did not capture it. Currently Russia only control of Mariupol in the south but even that city has a pocket defended by Ukrainian soldiers. Also Read | 'Cruelty and depravity': US blasts Putin as Russia carries out airstrikes against Kyiv Western aid including weapons are arriving in Ukraine. On Saturday (April 30) Russia said that its artillery had struck 389 Ukrainian targets overnight. These, said Russia included 35 control points, 15 arms and ammunition depots and more areas where Ukrainian troops and equipments were concentrated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Russia's defence ministry said that its missiles had hit four ammunition and fuel depots. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine: Russia forced to rearrange troop deployment, says British update

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