Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO has pledged to step up military aid to Ukraine. Ukraine has also demanded an energy embargo on Russia.

NATO to step up military aid to Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion

India abstained from a UNGA vote to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council. The move came despite Russia's explicit warning against abstentions. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India abstains despite Russia's warning

There are a lot of stories from Ukraine that is sending hope to millions and one of the stories is of a Ukrainian girl who fled to Italy to follow her dreams of becoming a ballerina. Watch it here!

The journey of a budding ballerina: Ukrainian girl follows ballet dreams

Top European leaders and diplomats have arrived in Kyiv to reassure membership. Europe will offer financial and moral support to Ukraine.

European Union chief and top diplomat to meet Zelensky

European Union has closed Bloc's ports to Russian vessels and will reduce dependence on Russia. On the other side, the EU has also rolled out additional funding to boost Ukraine's army.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: 'Russia faces a long descent into isolation,' says EU Prez

The United Nations General Assembly will vote on a draft resolution on whether to suspend Russia from the UNHRC over atrocities in Ukraine or not. On another side, India has condemned the Bucha killings and now India's neutrality is under test at UNGA.

India's neutrality on test at UNGA, calls for an independent probe into Bucha assault

It has been more than a month 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, 26 bodies have been recovered from shelled apartments in Borodyanka.

Borodyanka: 26 bodies recovered from shelled apartments

Asian Development Bank ADB has downgraded economic forecasts for Asian nations. ADB says that the combined economy of Asian bloc including China and India is reeling under impact of Russia invasion in neighboring Ukraine, covid-19 lockdowns.

Economies of Asian bloc is reeling under impact of Russia-Ukraine conflict, covid-19 lockdowns

NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg held a news conference on the group's response to the Ukraine war. He said that we are not here to provoke but we are focused on prevention.

NATO chief's comments after meet, says not here to provoke but prevent conflict

Six weeks on Russia's military offensive is now concentrated in the east and southern part of Ukraine. As a result, the citizens on Wednesday were warned to leave the regions immediately.

Russian invasion | 'Leave now or face threat of death,' Ukraine's message to residents

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. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (April 6) accused Russia of hiding evidence related to "thousands" of people killed in Mariupol in an attempt to block humanitarian access to the besieged port city. As quoted by news agency AFP citing Turkish media outlet Haberturk TV, Zelensky said: "The reason why we cannot get into Mariupol with the humanitarian cargo is precisely because they are afraid... that the world will see what is going on there." "I think it's a tragedy there, it's hell, I know that it's not tens, but thousands of people, different people, who have been killed there and thousands wounded," Zelensky added. ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky Reports have mentioned that residents in Mariupol waited in long queues on Tuesday (April 5) to receive deliveries of humanitarian aid. But Zelensky said Russia is not revealing evidence of thousands of people killed, however, he expressed confidence that Russia would not succeed in concealing all the proof. During his conversation with Turkish TV, Zelensky said, "They will not be able to hide all of this and bury all of these Ukrainians who died and who are injured. It's just such a number, it's thousands of people, it's impossible to hide." ALSO READ | Who are Katerina and Maria, the Russian President's daughters hit by US sanctions? Mariupol — the southern Ukrainian port city, that emerged to be strategically crucial, has been the centre of fierce fighting between Russia and Ukraine. On being asked about continuing peace talks with Russia, Zelensky said "they will have to take place anyway. I think it is difficult to stop this war without it." He added that he had a tough time bringing himself to continue talks with Moscow "because we understand who we are dealing with". WATCH | The US sanctions Putin's adult children amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine × (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the West is imposing sanctions on Russia. Now, US sanctioned Putin's adult children.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Joe Biden targets Russia's first family

During the 2nd day meeting of NATO foreign ministers, Ukraine asked for more weapons. Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said, "The more weapons we get and the sooner they arrive in Ukraine, the more human lives will be saved."

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Ukraine asks for more weapons from NATO

Cities in Ukraine are bearing the brunt of the Russia-Ukraine war. Cities that were once tourist attractions have turned into war zones and rubble. Cities including the capital Kyiv, have been damaged. Destruction, dead bodies, and silence occupy the streets of some of the cities including Bucha, Kharkiv, Mariupol, and Odessa. Will these cities come back to life? War in Ukraine but at what cost?

Ukrainian cities: Before & after the war - Kyiv, Bucha, Mariupol & others

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. A senior US defence official on Wednesday (April 6) claimed that Russian forces completely withdraw from Ukrainian areas around capital city Kyiv and northern city of Chernihiv in order to regroup in Belarus and Russia. Recent reports have stated that Russian forces are now shifting their focus to eastern Ukraine. As quoted by media outlet The Hill, the official said, "We aren't showing Russian forces in or around Kyiv or to the north of Kyiv, and we're not showing Russian forces in or around Chernihiv." The official added, "We have now seen that the Russians have moved from the north into Belarus and to Russia for refit and resupply. We have seen indications that that refit and resupply is occurring." ALSO READ | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol The media report also stated that Russian troops are shelling major cities continuously as they retreat. The official said that overall, the Russian military has launched more than 1,450 missiles against Ukraine since the invasion began. However, the official said that "we are assessing that they have completely withdrawn from Kyiv and from Chernihiv." Meanwhile, the Pentagon also said on Wednesday that it assessed that Ukraine could win the war against Russia, even as US officials speak of the risk of a protracted conflict. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told a news briefing, "Of course they [Ukraine] can win this. The proof is literally in the outcomes that you're seeing everyday ... absolutely they can win." ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky WATCH | New sanctions on Russia: UK targets Sberbank and credit bank of Moscow ×

US: Russian forces 'completely' withdrawn from Kyiv and Chernihiv; Ukraine can 'absolutely' win war

A photo of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky taken on February 23 this year, just a day before his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in Ukraine, portrays a different story than the photo taken on April 4. &nbsp;

The large scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, deemed "unprovoked and unjustified" by the West, is no doubt an unprecedented crisis for the country. Shelling and constant bombings by Russian troops have left the eastern European nation in tatters.&nbsp;

Millions of people have been displaced and at least $100 billion worth of infrastructure, buildings and other physical assets have been destroyed.&nbsp;

Ukrainian authorities have claimed hundreds died and reports of loot, rape and torture by Russian troops also emerged. Although, Moscow has "categorically" denied all the allegations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-had-no-option-but-to-negotiate-with-russia-to-end-war-but-will-putin-hold-talks-468562">Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?</a>

Amid all the chaos, the Ukrainian President rose to the occasion and gradually become the face of Ukraine's resistance with emotional appeals and impassioned speeches.&nbsp;

He has been urging world powers to send military assistance and humanitarian aid. He is also finding diplomatic ways to end the war without compromising Ukraine's sovereignty and peace.&nbsp;

But recent pictures have shown how the ongoing war changed situations. On Monday (April 4), Zelensky visited the town of Bucha outside the capital Kyiv where dozens of corpses, some with their hands bound, were allegedly discovered after Russian forces withdrew.&nbsp;

A teary-eyed Ukrainian leader told reporters, "Every day, when our fighters enter and retake territory, you see what's been happening."&nbsp;

"These are war crimes and it will be recognised by the world as genocide. You stand here today and see what happened. We know that thousands of people have been killed and tortured with extremities cut off, women raped, children killed," he told reporters, adding that "it's genocide."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a>

For the unversed, the 44-year-old Zelensky rose to fame via comedy. He was the star of a popular TV show in Ukraine called "Servant of the People". In the show, he played the role of president.&nbsp;

When Zelensky addressed the nation after Russia recognised two Ukrainian separatist regions as independent states and moved troops to the border, he wore a suit and tie and boldly mentioned Ukraine's resistance.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, when he addressed the nation on April 4 over alleged Bucha atrocities, he was wearing a bullet-proof vest and accompanied by military personnel and talked about "genocide" and "mass killings".&nbsp;

The world has seen and lauded Ukrainian resistance, but at what cost? This is yet to be analysed. &nbsp;

Ever since the invasion began, the "unlikely wartime leader" swapped his tailored navy suits, white shirts and ties with a simple and basic olive green T-shirt — the kind people generally wear for workouts or mostly soldiers wear under military fatigues.&nbsp;

Zelensky wears a simple green T-shirt in solidarity with his fellow soldiers who are either dead or risking their lives to protect and defend the country.&nbsp;

A report by Insider stated that "Presidents often leave the office with more grey hair than they had when they entered". The stress will be double&nbsp;if their tenure had a war or war-like situation.&nbsp;

But some dermatologists say Presidents experience an "expedited ageing process" due to the stress of the office. But some others state that it's natural ageing.&nbsp;

Has the ongoing war taken a toll on the Ukrainian president?&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha

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A photo of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky taken on February 23 this year, just a day before his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in Ukraine, portrays a different story than the photo taken on April 4.

A photo of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky taken on February 23 this year, just a day before his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin ordered a special "military operation" in Ukraine, portrays a different story than the photo taken on April 4. The large scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, deemed "unprovoked and unjustified" by the West, is no doubt an unprecedented crisis for the country. Shelling and constant bombings by Russian troops have left the eastern European nation in tatters. Millions of people have been displaced and at least $100 billion worth of infrastructure, buildings and other physical assets have been destroyed. Ukrainian authorities have claimed hundreds died and reports of loot, rape and torture by Russian troops also emerged. Although, Moscow has "categorically" denied all the allegations. ALSO READ | Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks? Amid all the chaos, the Ukrainian President rose to the occasion and gradually become the face of Ukraine's resistance with emotional appeals and impassioned speeches. He has been urging world powers to send military assistance and humanitarian aid. He is also finding diplomatic ways to end the war without compromising Ukraine's sovereignty and peace. But recent pictures have shown how the ongoing war changed situations. On Monday (April 4), Zelensky visited the town of Bucha outside the capital Kyiv where dozens of corpses, some with their hands bound, were allegedly discovered after Russian forces withdrew. A teary-eyed Ukrainian leader told reporters, "Every day, when our fighters enter and retake territory, you see what's been happening." "These are war crimes and it will be recognised by the world as genocide. You stand here today and see what happened. We know that thousands of people have been killed and tortured with extremities cut off, women raped, children killed," he told reporters, adding that "it's genocide." ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' For the unversed, the 44-year-old Zelensky rose to fame via comedy. He was the star of a popular TV show in Ukraine called "Servant of the People". In the show, he played the role of president. When Zelensky addressed the nation after Russia recognised two Ukrainian separatist regions as independent states and moved troops to the border, he wore a suit and tie and boldly mentioned Ukraine's resistance. Meanwhile, when he addressed the nation on April 4 over alleged Bucha atrocities, he was wearing a bullet-proof vest and accompanied by military personnel and talked about "genocide" and "mass killings". The world has seen and lauded Ukrainian resistance, but at what cost? This is yet to be analysed. Ever since the invasion began, the "unlikely wartime leader" swapped his tailored navy suits, white shirts and ties with a simple and basic olive green T-shirt — the kind people generally wear for workouts or mostly soldiers wear under military fatigues. Zelensky wears a simple green T-shirt in solidarity with his fellow soldiers who are either dead or risking their lives to protect and defend the country. A report by Insider stated that "Presidents often leave the office with more grey hair than they had when they entered". The stress will be double if their tenure had a war or war-like situation. But some dermatologists say Presidents experience an "expedited ageing process" due to the stress of the office. But some others state that it's natural ageing. Has the ongoing war taken a toll on the Ukrainian president? WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha ×

How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, and a series of economic sanctions by the West, Russian Oligarchs are facing the heat. Now, does cash-strapped Russian Oligarch Abramovich seek help from celebrity friends? Watch this report.

Does cash-strapped Russian Oligarch Abramovich seek help from celebrity friends?

NATO Foreign Ministers have arrived for a 2-Day NATO summit. The leaders will address the Russian invasion and Bucha killings.

NATO Foreign Ministers arrive for 2-Day NATO summit to address Ukraine & Bucha killings

The US defence secretary Lloyd Austin was grilled over the US' response to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

US Defence secretary grilled over the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

NATO foreign ministers meet in Brussels for a 2-day summit to address Russian invasion and Bucha killings. Nations participating in the summit will extend their support to Ukraine

2-Day NATO summit to address Russian invasion & Bucha killings, Allies to support Ukraine

The West is all set to announce more sanctions on Russia amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The US & Germany says that new sanctions will be announced soon.

Russia prepares to face more sanctions as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues

Into the second month of Russian invasion of Ukraine, President Zelensky connected via video call with UNSC and questioned the purpose of the meet.

Ukraine accuses Russia of War crimes as Bucha killings take centre stage at UNSC

In response to mounting criticism and questions about the evacuation and future study of Indian medical students from war-torn Ukraine, Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar said the delay was due to the Ukrainian government's ambiguous political comments.&nbsp;

The minister stated that the Ukrainian authorities' initial message was that the developing crisis was "manageable" and that everything was under control, which made Indian students hesitant to leave the country.

"We kept in touch with Ukrainian authorities and even universities on a regular basis."

"With some of the universities, we were really frustrated," he stated.

EAM Jaishankar tells Parliament that Indian medical students who have been evacuated from Ukraine will be given a one-year reprieve.&nbsp;

In response to specific concerns highlighted by the Opposition, Jaishankar stated that India is in talks with Poland, Romania, Kazakhstan, and Hungary to complete medical education for Ukraine returnees.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, four union ministers - Hardeep Singh Puri, Kiren Rijiju, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Gen VK Singh - briefed the house on the evacuation of Indians under Operation Ganga. They were sent to different countries bordering Ukraine as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special envoys during the evacuation process.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a>

In response to a discussion in the Lok Sabha on the situation between Russia and Ukraine, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India does not believe in "finding a solution by shedding blood" and instead urges dialogue.&nbsp;

Watch | Indian EAM S Jaishankar addresses Bucha killings in the parliament

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(With inputs from agencies)

In response to mounting criticism and questions about the evacuation and future study of Indian medical students from war-torn Ukraine, Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar said the delay was due to the Ukrainian government's ambiguous political comments.

In response to mounting criticism and questions about the evacuation and future study of Indian medical students from war-torn Ukraine, Indian external affairs minister S Jaishankar said the delay was due to the Ukrainian government's ambiguous political comments. The minister stated that the Ukrainian authorities' initial message was that the developing crisis was "manageable" and that everything was under control, which made Indian students hesitant to leave the country. "We kept in touch with Ukrainian authorities and even universities on a regular basis." "With some of the universities, we were really frustrated," he stated. EAM Jaishankar tells Parliament that Indian medical students who have been evacuated from Ukraine will be given a one-year reprieve. In response to specific concerns highlighted by the Opposition, Jaishankar stated that India is in talks with Poland, Romania, Kazakhstan, and Hungary to complete medical education for Ukraine returnees. On Tuesday, four union ministers - Hardeep Singh Puri, Kiren Rijiju, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Gen VK Singh - briefed the house on the evacuation of Indians under Operation Ganga. They were sent to different countries bordering Ukraine as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special envoys during the evacuation process. ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky In response to a discussion in the Lok Sabha on the situation between Russia and Ukraine, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India does not believe in "finding a solution by shedding blood" and instead urges dialogue. Watch | Indian EAM S Jaishankar addresses Bucha killings in the parliament (With inputs from agencies)

We were very frustrated with some of the Ukrainian universities: S Jaishankar

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 6) weighed in on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, stating&nbsp;the nation has chosen a side — a side of peace. He asserted that India is strongly against the conflict, which continues to escalate.&nbsp;

Jaishankar was replying to questions over India's stand&nbsp;in the lower house of the Parliament, especially over the latest developments coming in from ground zero.&nbsp;

Russia has been accused of war crimes and genocide after mass graves were allegedly found in Bucha, a town outside Kyiv after Russian troops recently withdrew from that area.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-impact-of-war-on-ukraines-comedian-president-and-an-unlikely-wartime-leader-468665">How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky</a>

Apart from mass graves, some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded.&nbsp;

In response to Bucha reports, Jaishankar condemned the alleged atrocities and supported the call for an independent investigation.&nbsp;

He said, "We're deeply disturbed by the reports. We strongly condemn the killings which have taken place there. It's an extremely serious matter and&nbsp;we support the call for an independent investigation."&nbsp;

Reports have said that more than 300 people have been killed and the total number of casualties&nbsp;is likely to increase.

Refuting the claims of brutality, Russia said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a>&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukrainian President Zelensky to address UNSC, blames Russia for brutal killings in Bucha

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"What is India advocating in Ukraine? We are, first and foremost, strongly against conflict. We believe that no solution can be arrived at by shedding blood and at the cost of innocent lives. In this day and age, dialogue and diplomacy are the right answers to any disputes," said Jaishankar.

He urged countries to respect the international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States. "This should bear in mind that contemporary global order has been built on UN Charter, on respect for international law, and for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States," he added.&nbsp;

He said. "In terms of diplomacy, India continues to press forcefully for an immediate cessation of hostilities and&nbsp;an end to violence. We encourage talks between Ukraine and&nbsp;Russia, including at the level of their Presidents. PM has spoken to them both in this regard."&nbsp;

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 6) weighed in on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, stating the nation has chosen a side — a side of peace.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday (April 6) weighed in on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, stating the nation has chosen a side — a side of peace. He asserted that India is strongly against the conflict, which continues to escalate. Jaishankar was replying to questions over India's stand in the lower house of the Parliament, especially over the latest developments coming in from ground zero. Russia has been accused of war crimes and genocide after mass graves were allegedly found in Bucha, a town outside Kyiv after Russian troops recently withdrew from that area. ALSO READ | How Ukraine war took toll on comedian-turned unlikely war president Volodymyr Zelensky Apart from mass graves, some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded. In response to Bucha reports, Jaishankar condemned the alleged atrocities and supported the call for an independent investigation. He said, "We're deeply disturbed by the reports. We strongly condemn the killings which have taken place there. It's an extremely serious matter and we support the call for an independent investigation." Reports have said that more than 300 people have been killed and the total number of casualties is likely to increase. Refuting the claims of brutality, Russia said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia. ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' WATCH | Ukrainian President Zelensky to address UNSC, blames Russia for brutal killings in Bucha × "What is India advocating in Ukraine? We are, first and foremost, strongly against conflict. We believe that no solution can be arrived at by shedding blood and at the cost of innocent lives. In this day and age, dialogue and diplomacy are the right answers to any disputes," said Jaishankar. He urged countries to respect the international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States. "This should bear in mind that contemporary global order has been built on UN Charter, on respect for international law, and for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States," he added. He said. "In terms of diplomacy, India continues to press forcefully for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to violence. We encourage talks between Ukraine and Russia, including at the level of their Presidents. PM has spoken to them both in this regard."

'We're deeply disturbed': India supports calls for independent probe in Bucha atrocities, says Jaishankar

Just months ago, Germany’s plans to build a terminal for receiving shiploads of liquefied natural gas were in disarray. Would-be developers were not convinced that customers would make enough use of a facility that can cost billions of dollars. And concerns about climate change undermined the future of a fossil fuel like natural gas.

Perceptions have changed. After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Kremlin’s threats to sever fuel supplies, the government in Berlin has decided it needs these massive facilities — as many as four of them — to wean the country off Russian gas and act as a lifeline in case Moscow turns off the taps. The cost to the taxpayer now seems to be a secondary consideration.

Most of the gas that Europe buys from Russia to power its electrical utilities is delivered through pipelines, over land or under the sea. Liquefied natural gas provides another way to move gas great distances when pipelines are not an option. Natural gas is chilled to a liquid and loaded on special tankers. It then can be transported to any port with equipment to turn it back into a gas and pump it into the power grid.

“We are aiming to build LNG terminals in Germany,” Robert Habeck, the country’s economy minister, recently said before talks with potential gas suppliers.

Habeck is a politician from the environmentalist Greens but is finding, somewhat to his dismay, that Germany needs the fossil fuel.

On Saturday, Lithuania said it had stopped buying natural gas from Russia. The cutoff won’t cause much pain to the Russian budget because Lithuania is a tiny country. But, as a member of the European Union, its decision held symbolic geopolitical importance. Europe’s energy transition took on new urgency Monday in the wake of global horror at images of bodies lying in the streets in areas of Ukraine from which Russian troops have withdrawn. Leaders debated how to punish Russia without putting Europe at risk of losing critical fuel supplies too quickly.

Much as it is changing attitudes across Europe and in Germany, the continent’s largest economy, Russia’s invasion into Ukraine is reshaping energy markets globally. For years, Europe has imported enormous volumes of gas from Russia to heat homes and power industry, but now that practice, which depends on billions of dollars’ worth of pipelines, faces severe curtailment.

The EU wants to end what is now deemed an unhealthy entanglement by 2030. Within a year, it wants to slash dependence on Russia, which supplied 40% of European gas last year, by two-thirds.

How will these huge volumes of Russian gas be replaced? The EU is betting on liquefied natural gas.

Europe’s leaders want to round up 50 billion cubic meters of additional LNG cargoes over the next year, which amounts to about half of the Russian gas it wants to ditch. That’s not all Europe is doing. Officials could get more gas via a pipeline from Norway and Azerbaijan. They also want to reduce gas consumption by ramping up wind and solar power projects, and are calling on citizens to turn down thermostats. But analysts say that Europe would struggle to swiftly replace so much gas. That is one reason that Germany is preparing for rationing.

These higher volumes of LNG, which would most likely need to continue for years, could cost around $50 billion at current prices, but much less if bought on long-term contracts from the United States, where prices are a fraction of those in Europe and Asia.

Europe’s scramble raises the prospect of a global battle over supplies in a market that analysts say has little slack. Asia, not Europe, is usually the prime destination for LNG. China, Japan and South Korea were the leading buyers last year.

The additional gas that Europe is targeting would add around 10% to global demand, creating a tug of war with other countries for fuel. That prospect could mean that gas prices that have touched record levels in recent months will remain high, prolonging misery for consumers and squeezing industry.

On Friday, for instance, home energy bills for millions of British consumers rose by 54%, largely because of soaring wholesale gas costs. Futures prices don’t offer any sign of relief.

“Over the next three years, competition for LNG is going to be extremely fierce,” said Massimo Di Odoardo, vice president for gas at Wood Mackenzie, a market research firm. “Europe and Asia are going to be pulling the blanket” to cover their needs, he added.

In theory, high prices should spur investment in more gas fields. But it is far from certain how much new production today’s high prices in Europe will encourage.

“Clearly in the short term you can’t replace that amount of gas,” said James Henderson, chair of the gas program at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, a research institution.

But, Henderson added, Europe is also likely to spend money accelerating its shift to cleaner energy, reducing demand for fossil fuels.

That potential damper isn’t stopping Germany from building what would be its first liquefied natural gas terminal and a flurry of new and expansion projects elsewhere in Europe. Berlin seems to have settled on a permanent terminal for a port called Brunsbüttel near Hamburg and also has options on three floating structures, which are cheaper. One could be ready in a matter of months.

Even before the latest announcements, LNG volumes for Europe were outpacing Russian pipeline gas. Tankers carrying gas were attracted by the high prices in Europe, which were stoked by tensions over Ukraine; they are now about seven times what they were a year ago. Those prices are a boon to the world’s major liquefied natural gas exporters: Qatar, Australia and, above all, the United States, whose shipments of the fuel, a product of shale drilling, increased by 50% in 2021 over the year before.

These energy riches bring political clout. Washington has been offering LNG to help Europe break its Russian energy links, a longstanding goal of some U.S. politicians.

On March 25, the Biden administration and the EU agreed that the United States would “strive to ensure” that at least 15 billion cubic meters in additional LNG this year reaches Europe, an amount comparable to around 10% of the gas that Europe imports from Russia.

Analysts say that this commitment is achievable, but mainly because of market dynamics rather than government policies. In the first three months of 2022, at least 115 cargoes of chilled gas left the facilities of Cheniere Energy, the largest U.S. supplier of LNG, and headed to Europe, more than double the total in the same period in 2021, according to the company.

Di Odoardo figures that LNG flows from the United States to Europe have already reached two-thirds of the bilateral target for this year, and so reaching it should be “easy.”

Washington has also leaned on other countries, including Japan, to give up some of their cargoes, and this has led to a substantial drop in shipments heading to Asia from the United States, according to analysts. Over time, though, such generosity may be a harder sell, especially if the war in Ukraine continues indefinitely and markets tighten further.

“Under the current conditions, I don’t think that Japan has the room to commit to long-term, continuous LNG shipments,” said Michitaka Hattori, a director at the Japan Institute for Russian &amp; NIS Economic Studies.

The surest way to bring prices down is to add more supply. High prices will encourage marginal increases in exports, but it usually takes more than two years to build new facilities for processing gas such as the terminal that Germany wants to build. Of course, LNG demand, which grew 6% in 2021, will most likely continue to grow as China and other countries shift to gas from pollution-spewing coal.

“I think the winter market for gas is going to remain very tight because of Asia’s shift from coal to gas,” said Marco Alverà, CEO of Snam, a large Italian energy company.

Cheniere Energy is moving ahead with a large expansion of its export facility at Corpus Christi, Texas. Qatar also says it is working on adding an enormous slug of LNG in the next five years.

Developers, though, will be wary of whether the current boom in Europe might fade well before the expiration of the new LNG projects, which are generally expected to operate for 20 years or more. And European leaders insist they still view gas as a temporary fix before renewable energy sources like wind, solar and hydrogen take over.

“There is a question mark there about how much new gas will be needed,” Henderson said.

Just months ago, Germany’s plans to build a terminal for receiving shiploads of liquefied natural gas were in disarray. Would-be developers were not convinced that customers would make enough use of a facility that can cost billions of dollars.

Just months ago, Germany’s plans to build a terminal for receiving shiploads of liquefied natural gas were in disarray. Would-be developers were not convinced that customers would make enough use of a facility that can cost billions of dollars. And concerns about climate change undermined the future of a fossil fuel like natural gas. Perceptions have changed. After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Kremlin’s threats to sever fuel supplies, the government in Berlin has decided it needs these massive facilities — as many as four of them — to wean the country off Russian gas and act as a lifeline in case Moscow turns off the taps. The cost to the taxpayer now seems to be a secondary consideration. Most of the gas that Europe buys from Russia to power its electrical utilities is delivered through pipelines, over land or under the sea. Liquefied natural gas provides another way to move gas great distances when pipelines are not an option. Natural gas is chilled to a liquid and loaded on special tankers. It then can be transported to any port with equipment to turn it back into a gas and pump it into the power grid. “We are aiming to build LNG terminals in Germany,” Robert Habeck, the country’s economy minister, recently said before talks with potential gas suppliers. Habeck is a politician from the environmentalist Greens but is finding, somewhat to his dismay, that Germany needs the fossil fuel. On Saturday, Lithuania said it had stopped buying natural gas from Russia. The cutoff won’t cause much pain to the Russian budget because Lithuania is a tiny country. But, as a member of the European Union, its decision held symbolic geopolitical importance. Europe’s energy transition took on new urgency Monday in the wake of global horror at images of bodies lying in the streets in areas of Ukraine from which Russian troops have withdrawn. Leaders debated how to punish Russia without putting Europe at risk of losing critical fuel supplies too quickly. Much as it is changing attitudes across Europe and in Germany, the continent’s largest economy, Russia’s invasion into Ukraine is reshaping energy markets globally. For years, Europe has imported enormous volumes of gas from Russia to heat homes and power industry, but now that practice, which depends on billions of dollars’ worth of pipelines, faces severe curtailment. The EU wants to end what is now deemed an unhealthy entanglement by 2030. Within a year, it wants to slash dependence on Russia, which supplied 40% of European gas last year, by two-thirds. How will these huge volumes of Russian gas be replaced? The EU is betting on liquefied natural gas. Europe’s leaders want to round up 50 billion cubic meters of additional LNG cargoes over the next year, which amounts to about half of the Russian gas it wants to ditch. That’s not all Europe is doing. Officials could get more gas via a pipeline from Norway and Azerbaijan. They also want to reduce gas consumption by ramping up wind and solar power projects, and are calling on citizens to turn down thermostats. But analysts say that Europe would struggle to swiftly replace so much gas. That is one reason that Germany is preparing for rationing. These higher volumes of LNG, which would most likely need to continue for years, could cost around $50 billion at current prices, but much less if bought on long-term contracts from the United States, where prices are a fraction of those in Europe and Asia. Europe’s scramble raises the prospect of a global battle over supplies in a market that analysts say has little slack. Asia, not Europe, is usually the prime destination for LNG. China, Japan and South Korea were the leading buyers last year. The additional gas that Europe is targeting would add around 10% to global demand, creating a tug of war with other countries for fuel. That prospect could mean that gas prices that have touched record levels in recent months will remain high, prolonging misery for consumers and squeezing industry. On Friday, for instance, home energy bills for millions of British consumers rose by 54%, largely because of soaring wholesale gas costs. Futures prices don’t offer any sign of relief. “Over the next three years, competition for LNG is going to be extremely fierce,” said Massimo Di Odoardo, vice president for gas at Wood Mackenzie, a market research firm. “Europe and Asia are going to be pulling the blanket” to cover their needs, he added. In theory, high prices should spur investment in more gas fields. But it is far from certain how much new production today’s high prices in Europe will encourage. “Clearly in the short term you can’t replace that amount of gas,” said James Henderson, chair of the gas program at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, a research institution. But, Henderson added, Europe is also likely to spend money accelerating its shift to cleaner energy, reducing demand for fossil fuels. That potential damper isn’t stopping Germany from building what would be its first liquefied natural gas terminal and a flurry of new and expansion projects elsewhere in Europe. Berlin seems to have settled on a permanent terminal for a port called Brunsbüttel near Hamburg and also has options on three floating structures, which are cheaper. One could be ready in a matter of months. Even before the latest announcements, LNG volumes for Europe were outpacing Russian pipeline gas. Tankers carrying gas were attracted by the high prices in Europe, which were stoked by tensions over Ukraine; they are now about seven times what they were a year ago. Those prices are a boon to the world’s major liquefied natural gas exporters: Qatar, Australia and, above all, the United States, whose shipments of the fuel, a product of shale drilling, increased by 50% in 2021 over the year before. These energy riches bring political clout. Washington has been offering LNG to help Europe break its Russian energy links, a longstanding goal of some U.S. politicians. On March 25, the Biden administration and the EU agreed that the United States would “strive to ensure” that at least 15 billion cubic meters in additional LNG this year reaches Europe, an amount comparable to around 10% of the gas that Europe imports from Russia. Analysts say that this commitment is achievable, but mainly because of market dynamics rather than government policies. In the first three months of 2022, at least 115 cargoes of chilled gas left the facilities of Cheniere Energy, the largest U.S. supplier of LNG, and headed to Europe, more than double the total in the same period in 2021, according to the company. Di Odoardo figures that LNG flows from the United States to Europe have already reached two-thirds of the bilateral target for this year, and so reaching it should be “easy.” Washington has also leaned on other countries, including Japan, to give up some of their cargoes, and this has led to a substantial drop in shipments heading to Asia from the United States, according to analysts. Over time, though, such generosity may be a harder sell, especially if the war in Ukraine continues indefinitely and markets tighten further. “Under the current conditions, I don’t think that Japan has the room to commit to long-term, continuous LNG shipments,” said Michitaka Hattori, a director at the Japan Institute for Russian & NIS Economic Studies. The surest way to bring prices down is to add more supply. High prices will encourage marginal increases in exports, but it usually takes more than two years to build new facilities for processing gas such as the terminal that Germany wants to build. Of course, LNG demand, which grew 6% in 2021, will most likely continue to grow as China and other countries shift to gas from pollution-spewing coal. “I think the winter market for gas is going to remain very tight because of Asia’s shift from coal to gas,” said Marco Alverà, CEO of Snam, a large Italian energy company. Cheniere Energy is moving ahead with a large expansion of its export facility at Corpus Christi, Texas. Qatar also says it is working on adding an enormous slug of LNG in the next five years. Developers, though, will be wary of whether the current boom in Europe might fade well before the expiration of the new LNG projects, which are generally expected to operate for 20 years or more. And European leaders insist they still view gas as a temporary fix before renewable energy sources like wind, solar and hydrogen take over. “There is a question mark there about how much new gas will be needed,” Henderson said.

How the recoil from Russian gas is scrambling world markets

In an address to the Security Council on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky railed against the UN's ineffectiveness in stopping Russia's ongoing conflict.

Following the finding of widespread civilian executions in the Kyiv district of Bucha, Zelensky warned the UN Security Council that the group had two options: Punish Russia or disband itself.

"As an aggressor and a cause of conflict," Zelensky urged the Security Council to remove Russia, which is a permanent member of the body, "so it cannot block decisions regarding its own aggression."

He also suggested that the UN's security council "dissolve" and reorganise completely.

"If there is no other option," Zelensky&nbsp;remarked, "the next option would be to disintegrate yourself completely."

After Russian forces retreated from the Kyiv region, hundreds of Ukrainian people were found dead in Bucha. Zelensky spoke before the council a few days later.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-had-no-option-but-to-negotiate-with-russia-to-end-war-but-will-putin-hold-talks-468562">Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?</a>

According to media sources, many bodies were discovered in partially excavated mass graves, while others were discovered lying on the streets.

Zelensky used his Tuesday speech to push for a global security system reform.

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in late February, has used its veto to prevent the UN from taking measures to stop and condemn Putin's aggression.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha

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(With inputs from agencies)

In an address to the Security Council on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky railed against the UN's ineffectiveness in stopping Russia's ongoing conflict.

In an address to the Security Council on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky railed against the UN's ineffectiveness in stopping Russia's ongoing conflict. Following the finding of widespread civilian executions in the Kyiv district of Bucha, Zelensky warned the UN Security Council that the group had two options: Punish Russia or disband itself. "As an aggressor and a cause of conflict," Zelensky urged the Security Council to remove Russia, which is a permanent member of the body, "so it cannot block decisions regarding its own aggression." He also suggested that the UN's security council "dissolve" and reorganise completely. "If there is no other option," Zelensky remarked, "the next option would be to disintegrate yourself completely." After Russian forces retreated from the Kyiv region, hundreds of Ukrainian people were found dead in Bucha. Zelensky spoke before the council a few days later. ALSO READ | Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks? According to media sources, many bodies were discovered in partially excavated mass graves, while others were discovered lying on the streets. Zelensky used his Tuesday speech to push for a global security system reform. Russia, which invaded Ukraine in late February, has used its veto to prevent the UN from taking measures to stop and condemn Putin's aggression. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha × (With inputs from agencies)

'Punish Russia or 'dissolve yourself altogether': Zelensky tells the UNSC

The Bucha massacre in Ukraine has shocked the entire world. The West has pledged to punish Russia for Bucha and European Union is planning to ban Russian coals completely.

European Union plans to ban Russian coals completely as West pledges to punish Russia for Bucha

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy blames Russia for the brutual killings in Bucha and will address UNSC meet via video link.

Ukrainian President Zelensky to address UNSC, blames Russia for brutal killings in Bucha

Taking a strict stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Latvia has ordered the closure of two Russian consulates in the country and told staff to leave the country.&nbsp;

A report by Sputnik mentioned that Latvia will also expel 13 Russian diplomats because of the "unprovoked and unjustified" military operations by Russia in Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;

The so-called "special military operation" ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 has left the country reeling as several towns and cities have been completely destroyed by shelling and bombing by Russian troops.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-says-ukraine-had-no-option-but-to-negotiate-with-russia-to-end-war-but-will-putin-hold-talks-468562">Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?</a>

As per data provided by the Ukrainian authorities, hundreds have been killed, thousands are injured and millions have been displaced in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Russia is also facing wrath as Western countries have slapped multiple economic sanctions to cripple and isolate the nation.

The country has also been accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine after mass graves and evidence of rape and torture were claimed to be found in the town of Bucha, which is west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv.&nbsp;

Fresh calls have been made to issue more sanctions against Russia after reports of Bucha atrocities emerged.&nbsp; &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a>

As quoted by news agencies, Latvia's&nbsp;ministry said in a statement: "The decision was taken in solidarity with Ukraine in its fight against the unprovoked and unjustified military aggression and war started by Russia."&nbsp;

Quoting the ministry statement, news agencies also mentioned that in Latvia, the consulates in the towns of Daugavpils and Liepaja will have to close and the staff members will have to leave by the end of April.&nbsp;

As reported by Sputnik, Estonia is expelling 14 Russian diplomats, closing the consulate in Narva and the office of the embassy in Tartu. Meanwhile, Spain expelled 'around' 25 Russian diplomats.&nbsp;

In response, Kremlin has said that Europe's expulsion of diplomats is a "short-sighted move".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Spain seizes Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg's superyacht for US

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&nbsp;

Taking a strict stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Latvia has ordered the closure of two Russian consulates in the country and told staff to leave the country.

Taking a strict stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Latvia has ordered the closure of two Russian consulates in the country and told staff to leave the country. A report by Sputnik mentioned that Latvia will also expel 13 Russian diplomats because of the "unprovoked and unjustified" military operations by Russia in Ukrainian cities. The so-called "special military operation" ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 has left the country reeling as several towns and cities have been completely destroyed by shelling and bombing by Russian troops. ALSO READ | Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks? As per data provided by the Ukrainian authorities, hundreds have been killed, thousands are injured and millions have been displaced in Ukraine. Russia is also facing wrath as Western countries have slapped multiple economic sanctions to cripple and isolate the nation. The country has also been accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine after mass graves and evidence of rape and torture were claimed to be found in the town of Bucha, which is west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Fresh calls have been made to issue more sanctions against Russia after reports of Bucha atrocities emerged. ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' As quoted by news agencies, Latvia's ministry said in a statement: "The decision was taken in solidarity with Ukraine in its fight against the unprovoked and unjustified military aggression and war started by Russia." Quoting the ministry statement, news agencies also mentioned that in Latvia, the consulates in the towns of Daugavpils and Liepaja will have to close and the staff members will have to leave by the end of April. As reported by Sputnik, Estonia is expelling 14 Russian diplomats, closing the consulate in Narva and the office of the embassy in Tartu. Meanwhile, Spain expelled 'around' 25 Russian diplomats. In response, Kremlin has said that Europe's expulsion of diplomats is a "short-sighted move". WATCH | Spain seizes Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg's superyacht for US ×

Latvia closes two Russian consulates, expels staff in a move against 'unjustified' war in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (April 5) said that negotiation with Russia is the only option left to end the ongoing war, which has left the country in tatters. But will the talks happen?&nbsp;

During an interview with Ukrainian journalists broadcast on national television, Zelensky said, "All of us, including myself, will perceive even the possibility of negotiations as a challenge."&nbsp;

He added that the "challenge is internal". During the conversation, the Ukrainian President said, "First of all, one's own, human challenge. Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that we have no other choice."&nbsp;

As he addressed the media outlet, Zelensky spoke about how Russian troops carried out extra-judicial killings in the town of Bucha west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-mums-write-family-contacts-on-bodies-of-their-babies-and-europe-is-still-discussing-gas-468513">'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas'</a>

<hr />
<blockquote>
All of us will perceive even the possibility of negotiations – I am not even talking about the content of the talks – as a challenge. The challenge is internal, first of all, one's own, human challenge. What shall we do now? Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that I have no other choice" -&nbsp;Zelensky
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
"The most difficult thing is to talk about what they (Russians) have done, recognize them as an enemy, know that it is a Russian war against Ukraine. It needs to be recognized. We believe it is genocide. We believe they must be held accountable for it. And having such a stance, we must look for a possibility to meet. And when we meet, we must find a solution. And solution cannot mean loss of our territory. I believe we must set such a goal for the talks. And then we will see what happens. There is a chance that the meeting will not happen. It is possible" -&nbsp;Zelensky

"Russia has its own view of Donbas while we have ours. For that reason, I had a simple proposal. I believe we will not be able to reach an agreement on all points at once. It is impossible even if we hold talks. It is impossible" -&nbsp;Zelensky
</blockquote>

<hr />
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swastika-shaped-burns-ukrainian-mp-claims-russian-soldiers-raped-and-branded-girls-shows-gory-image-468336">'Swastika-shaped burns': Ukrainian MP claims Russian soldiers raped and branded girls, shows gory image</a>

Mass graves were found in Bucha and some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded.&nbsp;

Refuting the claims of brutality, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia.&nbsp;

Moscow has also said it would present "empirical evidence" to a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday (April 5) to provide credible information that its forces were not involved in any killings.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Zelensky said that the events in Bucha were unforgivable but Ukraine and Russia should take the difficult option of pursuing talks.&nbsp;

Important to note that the talks are going via video link, reported the Russian news agency Interfax citing a deputy Russian foreign minister as saying.&nbsp;

So far, there's no official comment on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is interested in holding talks with his Ukrainian counterpart.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian invasion: 4.2 million Ukrainians displaced in 40 days

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(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (April 5) said that negotiation with Russia is the only option left to end the ongoing war, which has left the country in tatters.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (April 5) said that negotiation with Russia is the only option left to end the ongoing war, which has left the country in tatters. But will the talks happen? During an interview with Ukrainian journalists broadcast on national television, Zelensky said, "All of us, including myself, will perceive even the possibility of negotiations as a challenge." He added that the "challenge is internal". During the conversation, the Ukrainian President said, "First of all, one's own, human challenge. Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that we have no other choice." As he addressed the media outlet, Zelensky spoke about how Russian troops carried out extra-judicial killings in the town of Bucha west of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. ALSO READ | 'Ukrainian mums write family contacts on bodies of their babies and Europe is still discussing gas' All of us will perceive even the possibility of negotiations – I am not even talking about the content of the talks – as a challenge. The challenge is internal, first of all, one's own, human challenge. What shall we do now? Then, when you pull yourself together, and you have to do it, I think that I have no other choice" - Zelensky "The most difficult thing is to talk about what they (Russians) have done, recognize them as an enemy, know that it is a Russian war against Ukraine. It needs to be recognized. We believe it is genocide. We believe they must be held accountable for it. And having such a stance, we must look for a possibility to meet. And when we meet, we must find a solution. And solution cannot mean loss of our territory. I believe we must set such a goal for the talks. And then we will see what happens. There is a chance that the meeting will not happen. It is possible" - Zelensky "Russia has its own view of Donbas while we have ours. For that reason, I had a simple proposal. I believe we will not be able to reach an agreement on all points at once. It is impossible even if we hold talks. It is impossible" - Zelensky ALSO READ | 'Swastika-shaped burns': Ukrainian MP claims Russian soldiers raped and branded girls, shows gory image Mass graves were found in Bucha and some of the dead bodies were lying on the streets. Authorities claimed that women and young girls were raped, tortured and then killed. The bodies of some girls were even branded. Refuting the claims of brutality, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said the reports of civilian killings in Bucha were "fakes" aimed at discrediting Russia. Moscow has also said it would present "empirical evidence" to a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday (April 5) to provide credible information that its forces were not involved in any killings. Meanwhile, Zelensky said that the events in Bucha were unforgivable but Ukraine and Russia should take the difficult option of pursuing talks. Important to note that the talks are going via video link, reported the Russian news agency Interfax citing a deputy Russian foreign minister as saying. So far, there's no official comment on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is interested in holding talks with his Ukrainian counterpart. WATCH | Russian invasion: 4.2 million Ukrainians displaced in 40 days × (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says Ukraine had 'no option but to negotiate' with Russia to end war. But will Putin hold talks?

The negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul could possibly pave the way for a meeting between the Russian president Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Zelensky.

Russia to 'drastically reduce' assault, Kyiv sets condition for 'neutral status'

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