On the second day of Poland's trip, Joe Biden has delivered a remark and said Putin is a 'butcher'. After this unscripted remark, the question is arising that 'Will Biden's remarks affect peace talks'?

Biden's unscripted remarks on Putin amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Ukraine, Russia are all set to hold face-to-face meetings after almost two weeks amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine-Russia set to hold first face-to-face meeting after over 2 weeks

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov is going to visit India, a visit that comes amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The visit will be the first high-level meeting since the Ukraine invasion.

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov to visit India amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

It is day 34 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, 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, Residential areas have been hit hard in Bashtanka.

A month of the brutal Russian assault on Ukraine: Residential areas hit in Bashtanka

Kremlin had confirmed Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich's role in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Now, reports suggest that he has been hit by suspected chemical weapons poisoning.

Reports: Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich hit by suspected chemical weapons poisoning

It is day 34 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, 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. Allegations of war crimes by Russia is mounting.

The fight for Mariupol: Allegations of war crimes by Russia in Ukraine rise

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has opened the door for neutrality in peace talks with Russia. Meanwhile, Joe Biden statement on Putin's ouster from power has enraged the Kremlin. Palki Sharma gets you the details.

Gravitas: Zelensky opens the door for neutrality in peace talks

The war in Ukraine has triggered a rise in the sale of weapons. Estimates say military spending could go up by 50% in the Next 5 years. The U.S. is one of the few countries benefiting from this rise in demand for weapons. Which are the rest? Listen in to Palki Sharma

Gravitas: Shares of defence companies soar amidst Ukraine war

While Russian demanding for Ukrainian neutrality has been a key issue for Moscow at conflict negotiations, face-to-face talks began in Istanbul in between Ukraine and Russia.

Russia & Ukraine begin talks in Istanbul, aims to stop fighting in 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.&nbsp;

Russia is looking to divide Ukraine into two separate nations, like North and South Korea, Ukraine's military intelligence chief said on Sunday. &nbsp;

In the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic in Ukraine, a local leader on Sunday said the region may soon organise a vote on joining Russia. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement released by the defense ministry, Kyrylo Budanov, head, Ukrainian military intelligence, said the vote is "an attempt to create North and South Korea in Ukraine". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-demands-military-hardware-from-west-asks-if-afraid-of-russia-465830" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky demands military hardware from West, asks if afraid of Russia</a>

"The occupiers will try to pull the occupied territories into a single quasi-state structure and pit it against independent Ukraine," Budanov added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He also said the Ukrainian army will push back invading Russian forces, as per Reuters. &nbsp;

"In addition, the season of a total Ukrainian guerrilla safari will soon begin. Then, there will be one relevant scenario left for the Russians, how to survive," Budanov said. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Day 32 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Is Moscow changing its strategy?

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In an apparent pullback from earlier big goals, Russia is now&nbsp;saying its main focus is on taking control of the eastern Donbas region. This has fuelled fears that Russia is looking to divide Ukraine. &nbsp;

In talks, Russia has also demanded the acknowledgement of the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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. Russia is looking to divide Ukraine into two separate nations, like North and South Korea, Ukraine's military intelligence chief said on Sunday. In the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic in Ukraine, a local leader on Sunday said the region may soon organise a vote on joining Russia. In a statement released by the defense ministry, Kyrylo Budanov, head, Ukrainian military intelligence, said the vote is "an attempt to create North and South Korea in Ukraine". Also Read: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky demands military hardware from West, asks if afraid of Russia "The occupiers will try to pull the occupied territories into a single quasi-state structure and pit it against independent Ukraine," Budanov added. He also said the Ukrainian army will push back invading Russian forces, as per Reuters. "In addition, the season of a total Ukrainian guerrilla safari will soon begin. Then, there will be one relevant scenario left for the Russians, how to survive," Budanov said. Watch: Day 32 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Is Moscow changing its strategy? × In an apparent pullback from earlier big goals, Russia is now saying its main focus is on taking control of the eastern Donbas region. This has fuelled fears that Russia is looking to divide Ukraine. In talks, Russia has also demanded the acknowledgement of the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia trying to split Ukraine in two, like Koreas, says intelligence chief  

The war in Ukraine has triggered a food crisis in Bangladesh. Traders are hoarding essential commodities to drive up prices. The Bangladesh government has responded by announcing a nationwide ration scheme. Mariam Wardak tells you more.

South Asia Diary: Ukraine war triggers food crisis in Bangladesh

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, hopes are hanging over peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to several Russian media publications to share his points.&nbsp;

However, the Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor told Russian media on Sunday (March 27) to refrain from reporting an interview, which was done.&nbsp;

The media regulator further warned that the outlets could be subject to investigation and action could be taken against them if they broadcast the chat.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-says-ukraine-ready-to-discuss-adopting-neutral-status-466182">President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status</a>

Roskomnadzor released a short statement on social media and also posted it on its website. The statement mentioned that a host of Russian outlets had done an interview with Zelensky.&nbsp;

"Roskomnadzor warns the Russian media about the necessity of refraining from publishing this interview," it said. It did not give a reason for its warning or didn't reveal any details.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the interaction, Ukraine Zelensky said that Russian demand for Ukrainian neutrality was being closely looked at by Kyiv's negotiators.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wary-of-escalation-france-calls-for-restraint-after-bidens-butcher-jibe-466052">Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe</a>

While speaking with Russian journalists, Zelensky accused Russian leader Vladimir Putin of dragging out negotiations and prolonging the conflict.&nbsp;

Zelensky said, "We have to come to an agreement with the President of the Russian Federation. But to reach an agreement, he has to get up from where he is and come and meet me."&nbsp;

Negotiations to end more than a month of fighting in Ukraine have focused on Ukraine staying out of NATO, disarmament and security guarantees. The two sides are due to meet for the second round of face-to-face talks next week in Turkey.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The story of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky

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(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, hopes are hanging over peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to several Russian media publications to share his points.

Amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, hopes are hanging over peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to several Russian media publications to share his points. However, the Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor told Russian media on Sunday (March 27) to refrain from reporting an interview, which was done. The media regulator further warned that the outlets could be subject to investigation and action could be taken against them if they broadcast the chat. ALSO READ | President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status Roskomnadzor released a short statement on social media and also posted it on its website. The statement mentioned that a host of Russian outlets had done an interview with Zelensky. "Roskomnadzor warns the Russian media about the necessity of refraining from publishing this interview," it said. It did not give a reason for its warning or didn't reveal any details. During the interaction, Ukraine Zelensky said that Russian demand for Ukrainian neutrality was being closely looked at by Kyiv's negotiators. ALSO READ | Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe While speaking with Russian journalists, Zelensky accused Russian leader Vladimir Putin of dragging out negotiations and prolonging the conflict. Zelensky said, "We have to come to an agreement with the President of the Russian Federation. But to reach an agreement, he has to get up from where he is and come and meet me." Negotiations to end more than a month of fighting in Ukraine have focused on Ukraine staying out of NATO, disarmament and security guarantees. The two sides are due to meet for the second round of face-to-face talks next week in Turkey. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: The story of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky × (With inputs from agencies)

'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky

Russian demanding for Ukrainian neutrality has been a key issue for Moscow at conflict negotiations and now Ukrainian president Zelensky has said that the war-hit country is prepared to consider declaring neutrality.

'Ready to go for neutrality, non-nuclear status,' says Ukrainian president Zelensky

Russia has intensified his military assaults on Ukrainian cities. In the latest, Kremlin has claimed responsibility for the destruction of a fuel base near the western Ukraine city of Lviv, a major transit point for Ukrainians fleeing the country.

Russian troops intensify attacks on Ukrainian cities, missiles hit Lviv fuel depot

Russia has not been able to capture any major Ukrainian city. More than a month after it first invaded its neighbor, in the past few days, several western reports have been doing rounds that Russia has changed its strategy in Ukraine.

Is Moscow changing its strategy in Ukraine?

Oscars 2022: Benedict Cumberbatch, Jason Momoa & other celebrities show support for Ukraine

A senior Ukrainian official accused Russia on Sunday of "irresponsible" acts around the occupied Chernobyl power station that could send radiation across much of Europe, and urged the United Nations to dispatch a mission to assess the risks. 
 
Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said Russian forces were "militarising" the exclusion zone around the station, site of the world`s worst civil nuclear accident in 1986. 
 
Russian forces, she said, were transporting large amounts of old and badly maintained weapons, creating a risk of damaging the containment vessel constructed around the station`s wrecked fourth reactor. 
 
And Russian forces were preventing firefighters from bringing under control large numbers of fires in the zone. 
 
"In the context of nuclear safety, the irresponsible and unprofessional actions of Russian servicemen present a very serious threat not only to Ukraine but to hundreds of millions of Europeans," Vereshchuk said on her Telegram account. 
 
"We therefore demand that the U.N. Security Council adopt immediate measures to demilitarise the exclusion zone around the Chernobyl station as well as dispatching a special mission to eliminate the risks of any repeat of the Chernobyl accident resulting from the actions of Russian occupying forces," she said. 
 
Vereshchuk said damage to the containment vessel, built with European financing, would "inevitably lead to the release in the atmosphere of a considerable amount of radioactive dust and contamination not only in Ukraine but also in other European countries". 
 
Russia, she said, was "ignoring these risks" by continuing to transport weapons in areas near the station. 
 
Reuters could not immediately verify Vereshchuk's claims on the ground. Russia has previously denied that its forces have put nuclear facilities inside Ukraine at risk. 
 
The fire and explosion in 1986 in Chernobyl`s fourth reactor sent radiation wafting as far away as Britain and Spain. Thousands of deaths have been linked to the aftermath of the accident and the radiation it released. 
 
All its reactors have now been taken out of service. 
 
Russian forces occupied the Chernobyl station in the first days of the invasion last month and for a time prevented staff maintaining facilities there from leaving or being spelled off by other workers. 
 
The mayor of Slavutych, the town created and built to house the plant`s staff in the aftermath of the 1986 accident, said early on Monday that Russian forces that took over the town at the weekend had now left. 
 
Yuri Fomichev said in an online video post that the troops "hey completed the work they had set out to do" and were gone. He originally said three people had been killed in clashes. 
 
The International Atomic Energy Agency said in a statement that it was closely monitoring the situation and expressed concern about the ability of staff to rotate in and out of the station.

A senior Ukrainian official accused Russia on Sunday of "irresponsible" acts around the occupied Chernobyl power station that could send radiation across much of Europe, and urged the United Nations to dispatch a mission to assess the risks.

A senior Ukrainian official accused Russia on Sunday of "irresponsible" acts around the occupied Chernobyl power station that could send radiation across much of Europe, and urged the United Nations to dispatch a mission to assess the risks. Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said Russian forces were "militarising" the exclusion zone around the station, site of the world`s worst civil nuclear accident in 1986. Russian forces, she said, were transporting large amounts of old and badly maintained weapons, creating a risk of damaging the containment vessel constructed around the station`s wrecked fourth reactor. And Russian forces were preventing firefighters from bringing under control large numbers of fires in the zone. "In the context of nuclear safety, the irresponsible and unprofessional actions of Russian servicemen present a very serious threat not only to Ukraine but to hundreds of millions of Europeans," Vereshchuk said on her Telegram account. "We therefore demand that the U.N. Security Council adopt immediate measures to demilitarise the exclusion zone around the Chernobyl station as well as dispatching a special mission to eliminate the risks of any repeat of the Chernobyl accident resulting from the actions of Russian occupying forces," she said. Vereshchuk said damage to the containment vessel, built with European financing, would "inevitably lead to the release in the atmosphere of a considerable amount of radioactive dust and contamination not only in Ukraine but also in other European countries". Russia, she said, was "ignoring these risks" by continuing to transport weapons in areas near the station. Reuters could not immediately verify Vereshchuk's claims on the ground. Russia has previously denied that its forces have put nuclear facilities inside Ukraine at risk. The fire and explosion in 1986 in Chernobyl`s fourth reactor sent radiation wafting as far away as Britain and Spain. Thousands of deaths have been linked to the aftermath of the accident and the radiation it released. All its reactors have now been taken out of service. Russian forces occupied the Chernobyl station in the first days of the invasion last month and for a time prevented staff maintaining facilities there from leaving or being spelled off by other workers. The mayor of Slavutych, the town created and built to house the plant`s staff in the aftermath of the 1986 accident, said early on Monday that Russian forces that took over the town at the weekend had now left. Yuri Fomichev said in an online video post that the troops "hey completed the work they had set out to do" and were gone. He originally said three people had been killed in clashes. The International Atomic Energy Agency said in a statement that it was closely monitoring the situation and expressed concern about the ability of staff to rotate in and out of the station.

Ukraine says Russian forces near Chernobyl could pose new radiation threat

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (March 27) said that a Russian demand of Ukrainian neutrality was being closely looked at by Kyiv's negotiators.&nbsp;

Zelensky said that Ukraine is prepared to discuss adopting a neutral status as part of a peace deal with Russia, however, such a pact would have to be guaranteed by third parties and put to a referendum.&nbsp;

During an interview with several independent Russian news organisations, Zelensky was quoted by news agencies as saying: "This point of the negotiations is understandable to me and it is being discussed, it is being carefully studied."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wary-of-escalation-france-calls-for-restraint-after-bidens-butcher-jibe-466052">Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe</a>

Zelensky added, "We have to come to an agreement with the President of the Russian Federation. But to reach an agreement, he has to get up from where he is and come and meet me."&nbsp;

Important to note that the Kremlin earlier this month said that Sweden and Austria offered models of neutrality that Ukraine could adopt to help end Russia's invasion in Ukraine.&nbsp;

However, Ukraine rejected the proposal saying only Kyiv could design a system that would be acceptable to Ukrainians.&nbsp;

While speaking to Russian journalists in a 90-minute video call, Zelensky said that Russia's invasion had destroyed Russian-speaking cities in Ukraine. He added that the damages are worse than the Russian wars in Chechnya.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leading-energy-analyst-says-russian-gas-sales-to-china-will-not-make-up-for-loss-of-european-markets-465956">Leading energy analyst says Russian gas sales to China 'will not make up for loss of European markets'</a>

During the interview, Zelensky spoke in Russian throughout to target a Russian audience. However, Moscow authorities had pre-emptively warned Russian media to refrain from reporting the interview.

Zelensky said, "Security guarantees and neutrality, the non-nuclear status of our state. We are ready to go for it. This is the most important point."&nbsp;

Speaking more than a month after Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, Zelenskiy said no peace deal would be possible without a ceasefire and troop withdrawals.&nbsp;

Negotiations to end more than a month of fighting in Ukraine have focused on Ukraine staying out of NATO, disarmament and security guarantees.

The two sides are due to meet for a second round of face-to-face talks next week in Turkey.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russian invasion of Ukraine: Is Moscow changing its strategy?

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(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (March 27) said that a Russian demand of Ukrainian neutrality was being closely looked at by Kyiv's negotiators.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (March 27) said that a Russian demand of Ukrainian neutrality was being closely looked at by Kyiv's negotiators. Zelensky said that Ukraine is prepared to discuss adopting a neutral status as part of a peace deal with Russia, however, such a pact would have to be guaranteed by third parties and put to a referendum. During an interview with several independent Russian news organisations, Zelensky was quoted by news agencies as saying: "This point of the negotiations is understandable to me and it is being discussed, it is being carefully studied." ALSO READ | Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe Zelensky added, "We have to come to an agreement with the President of the Russian Federation. But to reach an agreement, he has to get up from where he is and come and meet me." Important to note that the Kremlin earlier this month said that Sweden and Austria offered models of neutrality that Ukraine could adopt to help end Russia's invasion in Ukraine. However, Ukraine rejected the proposal saying only Kyiv could design a system that would be acceptable to Ukrainians. While speaking to Russian journalists in a 90-minute video call, Zelensky said that Russia's invasion had destroyed Russian-speaking cities in Ukraine. He added that the damages are worse than the Russian wars in Chechnya. ALSO READ | Leading energy analyst says Russian gas sales to China 'will not make up for loss of European markets' During the interview, Zelensky spoke in Russian throughout to target a Russian audience. However, Moscow authorities had pre-emptively warned Russian media to refrain from reporting the interview. Zelensky said, "Security guarantees and neutrality, the non-nuclear status of our state. We are ready to go for it. This is the most important point." Speaking more than a month after Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, Zelenskiy said no peace deal would be possible without a ceasefire and troop withdrawals. Negotiations to end more than a month of fighting in Ukraine have focused on Ukraine staying out of NATO, disarmament and security guarantees. The two sides are due to meet for a second round of face-to-face talks next week in Turkey. WATCH | Russian invasion of Ukraine: Is Moscow changing its strategy? × (With inputs from agencies)

President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status

On the second day of Poland's trip, Joe Biden has delivered a remark and said Putin is a 'butcher'. After this unscripted remark, question is arising that 'Will Biden's remarks affect peace talks'?

Ukraine under attack: Will Biden's remarks affect peace talks?

Russian&nbsp;Foreign&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Sergei&nbsp;Lavrov&nbsp;said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;that a&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;between&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy should happen once the two sides are closer to agreeing on key issues.

Speaking to Serbian media outlets,&nbsp;Lavrov&nbsp;added that any&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;between&nbsp;Putin and Zelenskiy to exchange views on the conflict right now would be counter-productive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-seizes-premium-swiss-watches-amid-sanctions-report-466418">Russia seizes premium Swiss watches amid sanctions: Report</a>

Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it called a special operation to degrade its southern neighbour's military capabilities and root out people it called dangerous nationalists.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-sinopec-suspends-talks-with-russian-companies-amid-sanctions-row-466372">China's Sinopec suspends talks with Russian companies amid sanctions row</a>

Ukrainian forces have mounted stiff resistance and the West has imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia in an effort to force it to withdraw its forces.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The story of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy should happen once the two sides are closer to agreeing on key issues.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy should happen once the two sides are closer to agreeing on key issues. Speaking to Serbian media outlets, Lavrov added that any meeting between Putin and Zelenskiy to exchange views on the conflict right now would be counter-productive. Also read | Russia seizes premium Swiss watches amid sanctions: Report Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it called a special operation to degrade its southern neighbour's military capabilities and root out people it called dangerous nationalists. Also read | China's Sinopec suspends talks with Russian companies amid sanctions row Ukrainian forces have mounted stiff resistance and the West has imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia in an effort to force it to withdraw its forces. Watch | Gravitas Plus: The story of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky

Putin, Zelenskiy meeting needed once sides closer on key issues: Russian Foreign Minister

While Russian demanding for Ukrainian neutrality has been a key issue for Moscow at conflict negotiations, face-to-face talks to be held in Istanbul in between Ukraine and Russia.

Russia & Ukraine to hold peace talks in Istanbul

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has stopped its lucrative flights to Moscow as insurance rates became prohibitive after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the country's national airline announced Monday.

Both Russia and Ukraine were among the top three tourism-generating markets for Sri Lanka, a nation grappling with its worst economic crisis since independence from Britain in 1948.

Sri Lankan Airlines operated three flights a week to the Russian capital until fighting broke out last month and had reduced the frequency to two.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-major-sri-lankan-newspapers-suspending-print-editions-as-surge-in-economic-crisis-465415">Two major Sri Lankan newspapers suspend print editions as economic crisis surges</a>

The airline said it was compelled to pull the once highly profitable Moscow flights due to the steep operating costs after war broke out and difficulties in repatriating profits from Russia.

The South Asian nation had banked on tourists from the two warring nations to earn much-needed foreign exchange to finance the import of food, fuel and medicines.

The airline said its pullout was due to "operational restrictions that are outside of the airline's control" and promised to refund those with flight bookings.

Out of the 82,300 foreign tourists who visited Sri Lanka in January about 13,500 or 16.4 per cent were Russians, followed by 11,750 Indians and 7,770 Ukrainians.

The collapse of the leisure sector soon after the pandemic broke out in 2020 saw Sri Lanka lose more than four billion dollars in lost tourism revenue.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-significant-achievements-so-far-in-russia-ukraine-talks-kremlin-466309">&nbsp;No ‘significant achievements’ so far in Russia-Ukraine talks: Kremlin</a>

The country's best year for tourism was 2018 when it earned $4.38 billion from tourism and welcomed 2.3 million visitors.

Sri Lanka is currently in the grip of severe shortages of food and fuel as commercial banks have run out of dollars to finance essential imports.

Colombo has said it will seek an IMF bailout as the country's foreign currency reserves had hit $2 billion at the end of February, compared to $7.5 billion two years ago.

Watch |&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar holds important bilateral talks in Sri Lanka

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Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has stopped its lucrative flights to Moscow as insurance rates became prohibitive after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the country's national airline announced Monday.

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has stopped its lucrative flights to Moscow as insurance rates became prohibitive after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the country's national airline announced Monday. Both Russia and Ukraine were among the top three tourism-generating markets for Sri Lanka, a nation grappling with its worst economic crisis since independence from Britain in 1948. Sri Lankan Airlines operated three flights a week to the Russian capital until fighting broke out last month and had reduced the frequency to two. Also read | Two major Sri Lankan newspapers suspend print editions as economic crisis surges The airline said it was compelled to pull the once highly profitable Moscow flights due to the steep operating costs after war broke out and difficulties in repatriating profits from Russia. The South Asian nation had banked on tourists from the two warring nations to earn much-needed foreign exchange to finance the import of food, fuel and medicines. The airline said its pullout was due to "operational restrictions that are outside of the airline's control" and promised to refund those with flight bookings. Out of the 82,300 foreign tourists who visited Sri Lanka in January about 13,500 or 16.4 per cent were Russians, followed by 11,750 Indians and 7,770 Ukrainians. The collapse of the leisure sector soon after the pandemic broke out in 2020 saw Sri Lanka lose more than four billion dollars in lost tourism revenue. Also read | No ‘significant achievements’ so far in Russia-Ukraine talks: Kremlin The country's best year for tourism was 2018 when it earned $4.38 billion from tourism and welcomed 2.3 million visitors. Sri Lanka is currently in the grip of severe shortages of food and fuel as commercial banks have run out of dollars to finance essential imports. Colombo has said it will seek an IMF bailout as the country's foreign currency reserves had hit $2 billion at the end of February, compared to $7.5 billion two years ago. Watch | External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar holds important bilateral talks in Sri Lanka

War forces crisis-hit Sri Lanka to end Moscow flights

A retired army colonel from the United States is fighting the Russians in Ukraine for a second time since 2014. He narrates the transformation of the Ukrainian military from what he describes as a decrepit force into an effective operation capable of fending off Russian advances.

A soldier from US talks about change in Ukraine army

Kremlin has confirmed Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich's role in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Well, Ukraine has also urged not to sanction Abramovich.

Kremlin confirms role of Russian oligarch Abramovich in peace talks

Destroyed buildings & damaged cars - what’s left in Mariupol is rubble & dust. Russian troops bombed civilian areas in Mariupol and several people fled the port city. Now, some people are returning and finding their homes reduced to rubble.

'Nowhere to live here': Mariupol residents return to destroyed homes | 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. Ukraine had recently appealed to a Chinese maker of civilian drones to cut ties with Russia as they claimed that the drones are being used by the Russian army to target missile attacks. Now, the drone maker DJI has responded to the allegations as they dismissed the "utterly false" accusations that the Russian military is using its drones. On March 16, Mykhailo Fedorov, who is Ukraine's minister of digital transformation, said he asked DJI founder Frank Wang in a letter to cut ties with Russia. On Twitter, the Chinese firm wrote, "DJI promotes civilian drone applications that benefit society," adding that MediaMarkt's accusation was "utterly false". In Saturday's statement, it said, "We do not support any use that does harm to people's lives, rights and interests." ALSO READ | What does Joe Biden's 'horrendous gaffe' over Ukraine mean? Reports have stated that users of the Chinese drone giant's products range from photography hobbyists to US fire departments. The firm has found itself in an uncomfortable position after Russia invaded Ukraine more than a month ago in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". While Western firms have pulled out of Russia in protest, DJI has stayed on, like many Chinese companies, taking a cue from Beijing's stance of refraining from criticism of Moscow over the invasion. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky calls on NATO to support Kyiv × (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese drone maker reacts to allegations that Russian military uses its drones in 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.

Britain's Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and his armed forces face a "day of reckoning" as there is evidence of war crimes that are apparently being committed in Ukraine during the invasion.&nbsp;

In a report published by Sky News on Sunday (March 27), the minister weighed in on a range of topics, from US President Joe Biden's '[Putin] cannot remain in power' to sanctions against Russia.&nbsp;

While speaking to the media outlet, Zahawi said: "The important thing to remember is that there is evidence that war crimes have been committed in Ukraine, the targeting of civilian areas."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-does-joe-bidens-gaffe-over-ukraine-mean-466272">What does Joe Biden's 'horrendous gaffe' over Ukraine mean?</a>

"The Deputy Prime Minister (and Justice Secretary) Dominic Raab has been working with the international criminal court to make sure that that evidence is well documented, well collected, so those who commit war crimes know that there will be a day of reckoning," he added.&nbsp;

Zahawi further said that he did not agree with comments made by Biden, who said during a speech on Saturday (March 26) that Putin "cannot remain in power".&nbsp;

Recently, an assessment done by the United States claimed that the Russian military committed war crimes in Ukraine after Putin ordered special "military operations" in the neighbouring country.&nbsp;

On March 23, the US said that public information and intelligence it has collected amounts to strong evidence that the war crimes have been committed in Ukraine.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had said in a statement, "Today, I can announce that, based on information currently available, the US government assesses that members of Russia's forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-says-ukraine-ready-to-discuss-adopting-neutral-status-466182">President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status</a>

As per United Nations, the concept of war crimes developed particularly at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century.&nbsp;

During that time, the international humanitarian law, which is also known as the law of armed conflict, was codified.&nbsp;

The Hague Conventions was adopted in 1899 and 1907 focus on the prohibition of warring parties to use certain means and methods of warfare.&nbsp;

War crimes mean grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949. Violation includes wilful killing, torture or inhuman treatment, wilfully causing great suffering, extensive destruction and appropriation of property, etc.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark

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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. Britain's Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and his armed forces face a "day of reckoning" as there is evidence of war crimes that are apparently being committed in Ukraine during the invasion. In a report published by Sky News on Sunday (March 27), the minister weighed in on a range of topics, from US President Joe Biden's '[Putin] cannot remain in power' to sanctions against Russia. While speaking to the media outlet, Zahawi said: "The important thing to remember is that there is evidence that war crimes have been committed in Ukraine, the targeting of civilian areas." ALSO READ | What does Joe Biden's 'horrendous gaffe' over Ukraine mean? "The Deputy Prime Minister (and Justice Secretary) Dominic Raab has been working with the international criminal court to make sure that that evidence is well documented, well collected, so those who commit war crimes know that there will be a day of reckoning," he added. Zahawi further said that he did not agree with comments made by Biden, who said during a speech on Saturday (March 26) that Putin "cannot remain in power". Recently, an assessment done by the United States claimed that the Russian military committed war crimes in Ukraine after Putin ordered special "military operations" in the neighbouring country. On March 23, the US said that public information and intelligence it has collected amounts to strong evidence that the war crimes have been committed in Ukraine. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had said in a statement, "Today, I can announce that, based on information currently available, the US government assesses that members of Russia's forces have committed war crimes in Ukraine." ALSO READ | President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status As per United Nations, the concept of war crimes developed particularly at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. During that time, the international humanitarian law, which is also known as the law of armed conflict, was codified. The Hague Conventions was adopted in 1899 and 1907 focus on the prohibition of warring parties to use certain means and methods of warfare. War crimes mean grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949. Violation includes wilful killing, torture or inhuman treatment, wilfully causing great suffering, extensive destruction and appropriation of property, etc. WATCH | Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark ×

'There will be a day of reckoning': UK minister thinks war crimes committed in 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.

"For God's sake, this man [Putin] cannot remain in power," United States President Joe Biden said this to a crowd in Warsaw, Poland on Saturday (March 26) while condemning Russia's month-long invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The comments appeared to be a call for Putin's exit and went viral in no time. However, it sent the Biden administration rushing course-correction and giving explanations.&nbsp;

Biden's comments were delivered during the close of three days of marathon diplomacy. The remarks were termed a "horrendous gaffe" by one Republican senator.&nbsp;

US Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), a ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told CNN: "He gave a good speech at the end, but as you pointed out already, there was a horrendous gaffe right at the end of it."&nbsp;

During his address, Biden cast Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a battle in a much broader conflict between democracy and autocracy.&nbsp;

"The battle for democracy could not conclude and did not conclude with the end of the Cold War. Over the last 30 years, the forces of autocracy have revived all across the globe," Biden said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-says-ukraine-ready-to-discuss-adopting-neutral-status-466182">President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status</a>

Biden and other Western allies have been aiming at presenting a determined front against Russia's invasion.

However, the 'regime change' comments had risks that could have, to some extent,&nbsp;jeopardised efforts being done to defuse the situation.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the incident, which apparently caught even US advisors off guard, the White House clarified within minutes that Biden was not advocating "regime change" in Russia.&nbsp;

Hours earlier Biden had described the Russian President as a "butcher".&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that he thinks the President "made the point last night that", quite simply, President Putin cannot be empowered to wage war or engage in aggression against Ukraine or anyone else.&nbsp;

"As you know, and as you have heard us say repeatedly, we do not have a strategy of regime change in Russia - or anywhere else, for that matter," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/refrain-from-publishing-russia-warns-media-says-dont-report-interview-with-zelensky-466209">'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky</a>

The Russia and Ukraine conflict has already escalated with reports of multiple loss of lives and massive destruction.&nbsp;Amid all the chaos, such comments can act as a catalyst to aggravate the situation further.&nbsp;

Even France's President Emmanuel Macron warned such language could "escalate" a conflict the United States and its NATO allies have sought at all costs to contain. It can even undercut Western efforts to help suffering Ukrainians.&nbsp;

And as long as gaffes are concerned, Biden has a decades-long reputation for unfortunate off-the-cuff remarks.&nbsp;

Risch said the president had again shot himself in the foot. He told the media outlet, "I wish he would stay on script."

"I think most people who don’t deal in the lane of foreign relations don’t realize that those nine words that he uttered would cause the kind of eruption they did,"&nbsp;Risch added.&nbsp;

"Anytime you say, or even as he did suggest, that the policy was regime change, it’s gonna cause a huge problem," the&nbsp;senator added.&nbsp;

Top media outlets and newspapers have previously listed his "top 10 gaffes of all time".&nbsp;

The comments then a U-turn is a clear example that world leaders should keep a filter while speaking regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark

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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. "For God's sake, this man [Putin] cannot remain in power," United States President Joe Biden said this to a crowd in Warsaw, Poland on Saturday (March 26) while condemning Russia's month-long invasion of Ukraine. The comments appeared to be a call for Putin's exit and went viral in no time. However, it sent the Biden administration rushing course-correction and giving explanations. Biden's comments were delivered during the close of three days of marathon diplomacy. The remarks were termed a "horrendous gaffe" by one Republican senator. US Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), a ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told CNN: "He gave a good speech at the end, but as you pointed out already, there was a horrendous gaffe right at the end of it." During his address, Biden cast Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a battle in a much broader conflict between democracy and autocracy. "The battle for democracy could not conclude and did not conclude with the end of the Cold War. Over the last 30 years, the forces of autocracy have revived all across the globe," Biden said. ALSO READ | President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status Biden and other Western allies have been aiming at presenting a determined front against Russia's invasion. However, the 'regime change' comments had risks that could have, to some extent, jeopardised efforts being done to defuse the situation. In the aftermath of the incident, which apparently caught even US advisors off guard, the White House clarified within minutes that Biden was not advocating "regime change" in Russia. Hours earlier Biden had described the Russian President as a "butcher". US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that he thinks the President "made the point last night that", quite simply, President Putin cannot be empowered to wage war or engage in aggression against Ukraine or anyone else. "As you know, and as you have heard us say repeatedly, we do not have a strategy of regime change in Russia - or anywhere else, for that matter," he added. ALSO READ | 'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky The Russia and Ukraine conflict has already escalated with reports of multiple loss of lives and massive destruction. Amid all the chaos, such comments can act as a catalyst to aggravate the situation further. Even France's President Emmanuel Macron warned such language could "escalate" a conflict the United States and its NATO allies have sought at all costs to contain. It can even undercut Western efforts to help suffering Ukrainians. And as long as gaffes are concerned, Biden has a decades-long reputation for unfortunate off-the-cuff remarks. Risch said the president had again shot himself in the foot. He told the media outlet, "I wish he would stay on script." "I think most people who don’t deal in the lane of foreign relations don’t realize that those nine words that he uttered would cause the kind of eruption they did," Risch added. "Anytime you say, or even as he did suggest, that the policy was regime change, it’s gonna cause a huge problem," the senator added. Top media outlets and newspapers have previously listed his "top 10 gaffes of all time". The comments then a U-turn is a clear example that world leaders should keep a filter while speaking regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. WATCH | Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark ×

What does Joe Biden's 'horrendous gaffe' over Ukraine mean?

In a recent development in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Zelensky has criticised the West for not doing enough and demanded the West give arms to Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky calls on NATO to support Kyiv

On Sunday, around 1,000 local choirs in towns and cities across the world have gathered to sing together for peace in Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Spanish choirs lead global singalong for peace in Ukraine

Ukrainian ballerinas who were forced to flee their war in their home country have found a new shelter at Berlin State Ballet company.

Ukrainian ballerinas find a new shelter at Berlin’s top ballet company

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