In a bid to disallow golden visas for sanctioned Russians, European Commission seeks to end golden visa rules. Meanwhile, Moscow is planning retaliatory measures.

European Commission seeks to end golden visa rules

In the latest clampdown by the Ukrainian President, Zelensky said that he is ready for the Donbas compromise to resolve the conflict with Russia.

The latest clampdown by Ukraine President: Zelensky says he is ready for the Donbas compromise

US President Joe Biden reiterated his conviction that Vladimir Putin should not be President of Russia, telling reporters that he made "no apologies" for his off-the-cuff remarks.&nbsp;

He stood by his words "expressing moral outrage" but also clarified that he wasn't "articulating a policy change."

"I’m not walking anything back.I was expressing moral outrage, and I make no apologies," he added.

Speaking in Poland at the end of his four-day trip to Europe on Sunday, Biden said of Putin, "For God’s sake, this man cannot remain in power."

The line was improvised at the end of a 27-minute speech by a president known for doing so.

Biden's prepared remarks in the State Dining Room, his first public appearance since his Warsaw speech on Saturday, were about the budget proposal he is sending to lawmakers for the fiscal year that begins in October, but the majority of the questions from the two dozen reporters gathered in front of him were about his impromptu remark.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-of-urban-warfare-why-russia-will-find-it-difficult-to-conquer-kyiv-465932">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;History of urban warfare &amp; why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv</a>

Almost soon afterward, White House officials clarified that the remark did not reflect a shift in US policy, and that Biden was not seeking "regime change" in Russia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-could-russian-president-vladimir-putin-be-prosecuted-for-war-crimes-in-ukraine-465719">Also Read in Pics: How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine?</a>

"The president's point was that Putin could not wield authority over his neighbours or the region."

He wasn't talking about Putin's power or regime change in Russia." 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Zelensky opens the door for neutrality in peace talks

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However, Biden stressed on Monday that these and other reasons were not a "walk back," and that he was reacting as anyone would after meeting with victims of Putin's assault on civilians in Ukraine, especially children.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden reiterated his conviction that Vladimir Putin should not be President of Russia, telling reporters that he made "no apologies" for his off-the-cuff remarks.

US President Joe Biden reiterated his conviction that Vladimir Putin should not be President of Russia, telling reporters that he made "no apologies" for his off-the-cuff remarks. He stood by his words "expressing moral outrage" but also clarified that he wasn't "articulating a policy change." "I’m not walking anything back.I was expressing moral outrage, and I make no apologies," he added. Speaking in Poland at the end of his four-day trip to Europe on Sunday, Biden said of Putin, "For God’s sake, this man cannot remain in power." The line was improvised at the end of a 27-minute speech by a president known for doing so. Biden's prepared remarks in the State Dining Room, his first public appearance since his Warsaw speech on Saturday, were about the budget proposal he is sending to lawmakers for the fiscal year that begins in October, but the majority of the questions from the two dozen reporters gathered in front of him were about his impromptu remark. Also Read in Pics: History of urban warfare & why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv Almost soon afterward, White House officials clarified that the remark did not reflect a shift in US policy, and that Biden was not seeking "regime change" in Russia. Also Read in Pics: How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine? "The president's point was that Putin could not wield authority over his neighbours or the region." He wasn't talking about Putin's power or regime change in Russia." Watch | Gravitas: Zelensky opens the door for neutrality in peace talks However, Biden stressed on Monday that these and other reasons were not a "walk back," and that he was reacting as anyone would after meeting with victims of Putin's assault on civilians in Ukraine, especially children. (With inputs from agencies)

'No apologies' for saying Putin 'cannot remain in power': US President Biden

In the latest update on Ukraine-Russia conflict, Zelensky has signed a new law to restrict military details and violators will face years of imprisonment.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Zelensky signs a law to restrict details, violators to face imprisonment

On the second day of Poland's trip, Joe Biden has delivered a remark and said Putin is a 'butcher'. In a recent update, Biden said, I don't care what Putin thinks, I make no apologies for the remark.

Russia-Ukraine War: U.S. President Joe Biden stands by remarks on Putin

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. Humanitarian aid for Ukraine is dwindling as locals struggle without food, water & utilities.

Humanitarian aid for Ukraine dwindling as locals struggle without food, water & utilities

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion.

Svitolina, who has been outspoken in support of Ukraine amid the invasion, has competed at the Monterrey Open, Indian Wells and the Miami Open in recent weeks.

She lost in the opening round at Indian Wells and Miami, but reached the Monterrey Open quarter-finals and pledged to donate her prize money from the tournament to the Ukrainian army.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-rohan-bopanna-denis-shapovalov-pair-stuns-croatias-nikola-mektic-mate-pavic-to-enter-quarters-466464">Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters</a>

Russia calls its actions a "special military operation".

"It's been an extremely difficult couple of months for me, not only mentally but also physically," Svitolina wrote on Twitter. "For a quite long time I've been struggling with my back. 
 
"The pain didn't let me prepare for the tournaments at my best. Observing with unbearable pain in my heart what is happening in my homeland Ukraine ... gave me a huge push to continue and fight on court.

"Now, my body can't handle it anymore and I need to rest."

Svitolina added that she would also miss some of her "favourite" tournaments in Europe, but did not provide any other details.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-daniil-medvedev-outclasses-pedro-martinez-to-reach-last-16-naomi-osaka-storms-into-quarter-finals-466590">Miami Open: Daniil Medvedev outclasses Pedro Martinez to reach last 16, Naomi Osaka storms into quarter-finals</a>

Ukraine will take on the United States in a best-of-five qualifier in the Billie Jean King tournament formerly known as the Fed Cup on April 15-16.

The tie will be played at an indoor hard court venue in Asheville, North Carolina.

The winners will qualify for the 2022 Finals, scheduled to be held in November.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion. Svitolina, who has been outspoken in support of Ukraine amid the invasion, has competed at the Monterrey Open, Indian Wells and the Miami Open in recent weeks. She lost in the opening round at Indian Wells and Miami, but reached the Monterrey Open quarter-finals and pledged to donate her prize money from the tournament to the Ukrainian army. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters Russia calls its actions a "special military operation". "It's been an extremely difficult couple of months for me, not only mentally but also physically," Svitolina wrote on Twitter. "For a quite long time I've been struggling with my back. "The pain didn't let me prepare for the tournaments at my best. Observing with unbearable pain in my heart what is happening in my homeland Ukraine ... gave me a huge push to continue and fight on court. "Now, my body can't handle it anymore and I need to rest." Svitolina added that she would also miss some of her "favourite" tournaments in Europe, but did not provide any other details. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Daniil Medvedev outclasses Pedro Martinez to reach last 16, Naomi Osaka storms into quarter-finals Ukraine will take on the United States in a best-of-five qualifier in the Billie Jean King tournament formerly known as the Fed Cup on April 15-16. The tie will be played at an indoor hard court venue in Asheville, North Carolina. The winners will qualify for the 2022 Finals, scheduled to be held in November.

Elina Svitolina aggravates back injury after battling to represent Ukraine amid Russia's invasion

Russia's deputy defence minister Alexander Fomin said its forces are ready to reduce military activity in the areas around Kyiv and Chernigiv as chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky said there had been a "meaningful discussion" with Ukrainian officials in Istanbul.

"After today's meaningful discussion we have agreed on and proposed a solution, according to which the meeting of the heads of state is possible simultaneously with the foreign ministers initialling the treaty," Medinsky said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-using-phosphorus-bombs-in-ukraine-incendiary-weapons-its-use-466629">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine? incendiary weapons &amp; its use</a>

Medinsky added that the "possibility to make peace will become much closer". The chief Russian negotiator said the Ukrainian side had presented written proposals that said the country was ready to become a "permanently neutral state under international security guarantees".

The Russian negotiator said Ukraine officials want the final agreement to be inked between President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukrainian forces hold their ground on day 34 of the invasion

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Meanwhile, Ukrainian negotiator David Arakhamia said: "The results of today's meeting are sufficient for a meeting at the leaders' level." However, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had earlier called a possible meeting between Putin and Zelensky&nbsp;as "counterproductive".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-war-what-panzerfaust-3-weapons-can-do-against-russian-tanks-466330">Also Read in Pics |&nbsp;Ukraine war: What Panzerfaust 3 weapons can do against Russian tanks</a>

After the talks concluded, the Russian ruble surged over 10 per cent against the dollar. Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the talks had shown "most significant progress" as Ukrainian and Russian officials reportedly spoke for three hours.

However, US secretary of state Anthony Blinken said he had "not seen signs of real seriousness" from Russia, while the UK government declared it will judge Russia by "actions, not words" amid the fighting in Ukraine.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia's deputy defence minister Alexander Fomin said its forces are ready to reduce military activity in the areas around Kyiv and Chernigiv as chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky said there had been a "meaningful discussion" with Ukrainian officials in Istanbul.

Russia's deputy defence minister Alexander Fomin said its forces are ready to reduce military activity in the areas around Kyiv and Chernigiv as chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky said there had been a "meaningful discussion" with Ukrainian officials in Istanbul. "After today's meaningful discussion we have agreed on and proposed a solution, according to which the meeting of the heads of state is possible simultaneously with the foreign ministers initialling the treaty," Medinsky said. Also Read in Pics: Russia using phosphorus bombs in Ukraine? incendiary weapons & its use Medinsky added that the "possibility to make peace will become much closer". The chief Russian negotiator said the Ukrainian side had presented written proposals that said the country was ready to become a "permanently neutral state under international security guarantees". The Russian negotiator said Ukraine officials want the final agreement to be inked between President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelensky. Watch: Ukrainian forces hold their ground on day 34 of the invasion Meanwhile, Ukrainian negotiator David Arakhamia said: "The results of today's meeting are sufficient for a meeting at the leaders' level." However, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had earlier called a possible meeting between Putin and Zelensky as "counterproductive". Also Read in Pics | Ukraine war: What Panzerfaust 3 weapons can do against Russian tanks After the talks concluded, the Russian ruble surged over 10 per cent against the dollar. Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the talks had shown "most significant progress" as Ukrainian and Russian officials reportedly spoke for three hours. However, US secretary of state Anthony Blinken said he had "not seen signs of real seriousness" from Russia, while the UK government declared it will judge Russia by "actions, not words" amid the fighting in Ukraine. (With inputs from Agencies)

Sufficient conditions for talks between Zelensky, Putin: Ukraine

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;

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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

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