With the aim to help Ukraine, a small business in Chicago organised two fundraisers and raised over $160,000 by selling Lego mini-figures of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Motolov cocktails. &nbsp;

Ukraine is facing a tough time since the beginning of the Russian invasion. It has witnessed widespread destruction, deaths, refugee crisis, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russias-advance-halts-in-ukraine-us-warns-china-over-backing-putin-463300">As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin</a>

The business, which sells custom Lego products, is called Citizen Brick. The fundraisers were held on March 5 and 16. &nbsp;

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Chicago-based Citizen Brick, which makes custom LEGO minifigs, is doing its part in a unique and creative way. On Instagram in early March, they announced a special President Volodymyr Zelenskyy minifig and little Molotov cocktails, with all proceeds going to support Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/WHW0GsfNbW">pic.twitter.com/WHW0GsfNbW</a>
— arnim f. lighting (@arnimf) <a href="https://twitter.com/arnimf/status/1504708848506048512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Joe Trupia, owner, Citizen Brick, told the Washington Examiner, it would donate the money to the non-profit organisation Direct Relief as it was "top ranked in the NYTimes list of charities helping Ukraine." &nbsp;

"I think he's emerged as a heroic figure in this situation. I think we responded to his bravery in the face of an invasion. We don't usually make political figures, but he has kind of a distinctive appearance that translated well to minifigure," Trupia said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-ukraine-conflict-intensifies-russian-president-vladimir-putin-issues-warning-to-traitors-463306">Russian President Vladimir Putin issues warning to 'traitors'</a>

The figures of Zelensky and Motolov cocktail were sold for $100 and $10, respectively. The first fundraiser fetched $16,540, as per the Facebook page of the business. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A second fundraiser was held as there was "overwhelming interest" with just the Zelensky figure. It garnered $145,388 in donations, the firm said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the aim to help Ukraine, a small business in Chicago organised two fundraisers and raised over $160,000 by selling Lego mini-figures of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Motolov cocktails.

With the aim to help Ukraine, a small business in Chicago organised two fundraisers and raised over $160,000 by selling Lego mini-figures of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Motolov cocktails. Ukraine is facing a tough time since the beginning of the Russian invasion. It has witnessed widespread destruction, deaths, refugee crisis, etc. Also Read: As Russia's advance halts in Ukraine, US warns China over backing Putin The business, which sells custom Lego products, is called Citizen Brick. The fundraisers were held on March 5 and 16. Chicago-based Citizen Brick, which makes custom LEGO minifigs, is doing its part in a unique and creative way. On Instagram in early March, they announced a special President Volodymyr Zelenskyy minifig and little Molotov cocktails, with all proceeds going to support Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/WHW0GsfNbW — arnim f. lighting (@arnimf) March 18, 2022 × Joe Trupia, owner, Citizen Brick, told the Washington Examiner, it would donate the money to the non-profit organisation Direct Relief as it was "top ranked in the NYTimes list of charities helping Ukraine." "I think he's emerged as a heroic figure in this situation. I think we responded to his bravery in the face of an invasion. We don't usually make political figures, but he has kind of a distinctive appearance that translated well to minifigure," Trupia said. Also Read: Russian President Vladimir Putin issues warning to 'traitors' The figures of Zelensky and Motolov cocktail were sold for $100 and $10, respectively. The first fundraiser fetched $16,540, as per the Facebook page of the business. A second fundraiser was held as there was "overwhelming interest" with just the Zelensky figure. It garnered $145,388 in donations, the firm said. (With inputs from agencies)

US firm sells Zelensky, Motolov cocktails’ Legos, raises $160,000 for Ukraine

It has been several weeks since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Now, a massive fire rages on in western Kyiv.

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Turkey is acting as a mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The Russia-Ukraine talks were also held in Turkey. Now, Ukraine wants Turkey to offer security guarantees.

Ukraine wants Turkey to offer security guarantees amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, war crime accusations are mounting on Russia. In the latest, Blinken echoes 'war crime' rhetoric.

Blinken doubles down on US President Biden's war crime remark on Russia

US Air Force (USAF) general Kenneth Wilsbach said the US-built F-35 had an encounter with China's Chengdu J-20 adding that he was "relatively impressed with the command and control associated with the J-20." In other news, a deepfake video purportedly showing Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky is being shared online. Read this and more in Top 10 World News.

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US general Kenneth Wilsbach's latest comments come as United States Navy recently recovered the F-35C Lightning II stealth fighter jet that sank in the South China Sea.

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The video appeared to show an ashen-faced Zelenskiy speaking from the presidential lectern and urging his countrymen to down their weapons in the face of Russian invaders.

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The ship, which had left Dubai few days ago, was bound for the port of Umm Qasr in Southern Iraq and it was carrying cars and other cargo.

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Putin's latest jibe at his political enemies comes even as Russia announced that it paid interest on foreign debt due this week.

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While this finding has given rise to fresh fears around the world, health officials in Israel played down the risks of this new variant.

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US President Joe Biden announces an additional USD 800 million in security assistance to Ukraine. US to send hundreds more anti-aircraft system to Ukraine.

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The European Space Agency (ESA) has said that a joint Mars mission with Russia has been suspended over Ukraine war.

<img alt="Mars" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4d0a599-d292-408a-937b-8f4677e44052" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mars.png" />

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One of main thrusts of our skywatching has been to find exoplanets, and some that would possibly harbour life! But everything doesn't always go according to plan and our observations sometimes are not that accurate. That's life we suppose.

<img alt="exoplanets" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74d85096-ab05-4255-af1b-44eac8ef318d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/exoplanets.png" />

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According to Indian coast guard, during a patrol ICGS Vajra detected a boat 117 nautical miles south east of India's southern most district Kanyakumari.

&nbsp;

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India splurged a record $55.7 billion on gold imports in 2021, buying 1,050 tonnes - the most in a decade, and far more than the 430 tonnes imported in 2020.

<img alt="Gold" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f97937cd-f53c-45f8-b553-5e0cc6e7ffdd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Gold.png" />

US Air Force (USAF) general Kenneth Wilsbach said the US-built F-35 had an encounter with China's Chengdu J-20 adding that he was "relatively impressed with the command and control associated with the J-20.

US Air Force (USAF) general Kenneth Wilsbach said the US-built F-35 had an encounter with China's Chengdu J-20 adding that he was "relatively impressed with the command and control associated with the J-20." In other news, a deepfake video purportedly showing Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky is being shared online. Read this and more in Top 10 World News. 'Relatively impressed': US F-35 fighter jet has close encounter with China's J-20 in East China Sea US general Kenneth Wilsbach's latest comments come as United States Navy recently recovered the F-35C Lightning II stealth fighter jet that sank in the South China Sea. Deepfake video of Ukraine President Zelensky shared online The video appeared to show an ashen-faced Zelenskiy speaking from the presidential lectern and urging his countrymen to down their weapons in the face of Russian invaders. UAE cargo ship carrying 30 crew members sinks off Iran coast The ship, which had left Dubai few days ago, was bound for the port of Umm Qasr in Southern Iraq and it was carrying cars and other cargo. 'Villas in Miami': Putin lashes out at 'scum' and 'traitors' amid Ukraine war Putin's latest jibe at his political enemies comes even as Russia announced that it paid interest on foreign debt due this week. Everything we know about the new COVID-19 variant found in Israel While this finding has given rise to fresh fears around the world, health officials in Israel played down the risks of this new variant. US sending Switchblade drones to Ukraine US President Joe Biden announces an additional USD 800 million in security assistance to Ukraine. US to send hundreds more anti-aircraft system to Ukraine. Joint Euro-Russian Mars mission suspended because of Ukraine conflict: ESA The European Space Agency (ESA) has said that a joint Mars mission with Russia has been suspended over Ukraine war. Three exoplanets have been 'lost', here's what's the deal One of main thrusts of our skywatching has been to find exoplanets, and some that would possibly harbour life! But everything doesn't always go according to plan and our observations sometimes are not that accurate. That's life we suppose. Sri Lankan boat with six crew held for fishing in Indian waters According to Indian coast guard, during a patrol ICGS Vajra detected a boat 117 nautical miles south east of India's southern most district Kanyakumari. India's gold output could rise multifold if hurdles removed: WGC report India splurged a record $55.7 billion on gold imports in 2021, buying 1,050 tonnes - the most in a decade, and far more than the 430 tonnes imported in 2020.

Top 10 world news: US-China fighter jets encounter, Zelensky video, and more

It has been several weeks since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Zelensky visits victims of Russian attacks in Kyiv

Smoke plumes on the Kyiv skyline as the Russian invasion of Ukraine enters day 23

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky compared the ongoing invasion by Russia to 9/11 and the Pearl Harbor attack, which forced the United States to get involved in World War II. Meanwhile, Kremlin said the war in Ukraine was "going to plan" amid talk of compromise at peace talks.

During an emotional and impassioned video address to the US Congress, Zelensky said, "In your great history, you have pages that would allow you to understand Ukrainians, understand us now when we need you right now."&nbsp;

"Remember Pearl Harbor. The terrible morning of December 7, 1941, when your sky was black from the planes attacking you," Zelensky said, adding that the attacks on September 11, 2001 "turned your cities, independent territories into battlefields."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-under-attack-russia-attacks-mariupol-theatre-sheltering-hundreds-of-civilians-see-satellite-image-463012">Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image</a>

The Ukrainian President said that his country is seeing such horrors every day. "Our country experiences the same every day. Right now, every day, every night for three weeks now ... Russia has turned the Ukrainian sky into a source of death of thousands of people," he said.&nbsp;

Zelensky pleaded with allies to impose a no-fly zone and also showed the extent of devastation in Ukraine. wrought. He received a standing ovation from US lawmakers.&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (March 16) said he would discuss neutral status for Ukraine and that what he calls a "special military operation" to demilitarize the country was "going to plan".&nbsp;

Kyiv and allies say his actions are an unprovoked incursion, and more than three million Ukrainians have fled and hundreds have died.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Is the peace deal possible?

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky compared the ongoing invasion by Russia to 9/11 and the Pearl Harbor attack, which forced the United States to get involved in World War II.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky compared the ongoing invasion by Russia to 9/11 and the Pearl Harbor attack, which forced the United States to get involved in World War II. Meanwhile, Kremlin said the war in Ukraine was "going to plan" amid talk of compromise at peace talks. During an emotional and impassioned video address to the US Congress, Zelensky said, "In your great history, you have pages that would allow you to understand Ukrainians, understand us now when we need you right now." "Remember Pearl Harbor. The terrible morning of December 7, 1941, when your sky was black from the planes attacking you," Zelensky said, adding that the attacks on September 11, 2001 "turned your cities, independent territories into battlefields." ALSO READ | Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image The Ukrainian President said that his country is seeing such horrors every day. "Our country experiences the same every day. Right now, every day, every night for three weeks now ... Russia has turned the Ukrainian sky into a source of death of thousands of people," he said. Zelensky pleaded with allies to impose a no-fly zone and also showed the extent of devastation in Ukraine. wrought. He received a standing ovation from US lawmakers. ALSO READ | US cancels license of China-owned telecom company Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (March 16) said he would discuss neutral status for Ukraine and that what he calls a "special military operation" to demilitarize the country was "going to plan". Kyiv and allies say his actions are an unprovoked incursion, and more than three million Ukrainians have fled and hundreds have died. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Is the peace deal possible? × (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky compares Russian invasion to 9/11 and Pearl Harbor attack; Putin says invasion on course

For 22 days now, residents in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv have had sleepless nights, they have been living in constant fear- the fear of losing their loved ones, the fear of losing their house, the fear of being attacked by the Russian shelling and Moscow does not seem to have any plans to scale down its offensive.

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Its been three weeks since Russian invasion of Ukraine dominated the headlines. Russia believes that it was betrayed by the West, the promise made by NATO that it will not expand to the east. Is Ukraine paying for NATO's gambles?

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Is Ukraine paying for NATO's gambles?

As the Russian invasion into Ukraine enters the fourth week, there is no end to aggression in the Northeast region of Ukraine. The city of Kharkiv continues to face persistent bombardment by the Russian troops.

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Now the war may have worked in Emmanuel Macron's favor but what do the people of Ukraine think about the French leader. Earlier we spoke to Ivanna Klympush, she is the chair of the parliamentary committee on integration of Ukraine to the European Union on the same, listen in.

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President Joe Biden said that the US has offered Ukraine $1bn in security aid, adding America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend themselves. WION's correspondent Susan Tehrani brings you more on this.

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President Joe Biden said that the US has offered Ukraine $1bn in security aid, adding America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend themselves.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: US President Joe Biden announces $1bn arms aid to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued an urgent plea to the United States as he addressed a special joint session of Congress via video. He called for the US to "do more" to help his country's fight against Russia.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: President Zelensky calls on US to 'do more' to in his speech to Congress

On Wednesday, Ukraine handed over nine detained Russian soldiers in order to gain the release of Melitopol's mayor, who was detained last week, according to the Interfax Ukraine news agency.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's administration had previously stated that mayor Ivan Fedorov had been released, but provided no other details.&nbsp;

"Ivan Fedorov was released from Russian captivity ... for him, Russia received nine captured soldiers who were born in 2002 and 2003. These are actually children," Interfax Ukraine quoted Zelenskiy press aide Darya Zarivnaya as saying. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-under-attack-russia-attacks-mariupol-theatre-sheltering-hundreds-of-civilians-see-satellite-image-463012">Also read | Ukraine under attack: Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image</a>

Ivan Fedorov praised President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for not 'abandoning' him in a phone call shared by the Ukrainian government, and stated he will be ready to serve again after 'one or two days to recover.'&nbsp;

Mayor Ivan Fedorov was kidnapped, according to the Ukrainian president and parliament, because he "refused to cooperate with the enemy." 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cancels-license-of-china-owned-telecom-company-462991">US cancels license of China-owned telecom company</a>

President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to him on the phone on Wednesday, telling him he was 'glad to hear the voice of a man alive,' according to a video released on Telegram.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On Wednesday, Ukraine handed over nine detained Russian soldiers in order to gain the release of Melitopol's mayor, who was detained last week, according to the Interfax Ukraine news agency.

On Wednesday, Ukraine handed over nine detained Russian soldiers in order to gain the release of Melitopol's mayor, who was detained last week, according to the Interfax Ukraine news agency. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's administration had previously stated that mayor Ivan Fedorov had been released, but provided no other details. "Ivan Fedorov was released from Russian captivity ... for him, Russia received nine captured soldiers who were born in 2002 and 2003. These are actually children," Interfax Ukraine quoted Zelenskiy press aide Darya Zarivnaya as saying. Also read | Ukraine under attack: Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image Ivan Fedorov praised President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for not 'abandoning' him in a phone call shared by the Ukrainian government, and stated he will be ready to serve again after 'one or two days to recover.' Mayor Ivan Fedorov was kidnapped, according to the Ukrainian president and parliament, because he "refused to cooperate with the enemy." ALSO READ | US cancels license of China-owned telecom company President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to him on the phone on Wednesday, telling him he was 'glad to hear the voice of a man alive,' according to a video released on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Kidnapped’ mayor of Melitopol is freed after being swapped for nine Russian soldiers

The Russian onslaught is getting deadlier by the day and the Ukrainian resistance is getting fiercer. And the west continues to keep &nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky at an arm's length. But that could change as the Biden administration is going to arm Ukraine with killer drones.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden has announced an additional $800 million in security assistance to Ukraine on Wednesday. &nbsp;Biden says America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend itself.&nbsp;

"This new package on its own is going to provide unprecedented assistance to Ukraine, and includes 800 anti-aircraft systems," Biden said, to stop Russian planes and helicopters attacking Ukrainians.&nbsp;

In a landmark virtual address to the U.S Congress, Ukraine's leader on Wednesday made an emotive appeal to lawmakers for greater Western intervention against Russia. Zelensky invoked September 11 and Pearl Harbor during his impassioned address to the US Congress, imploring Washington to step up military aid and impose a no-fly zone to counter the Russian invasion closing in on Kyiv. But that request involves a direct engagement of NATO forces and has been repeatedly refused by the West.&nbsp;

<img alt="Drone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e898a67-800b-4a71-88da-06812645d435" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AeroVironment%20image%202%20%281%29.PNG" />

(Image: AeroVironment)

Among the weaponry which Washington is sending, the most potent in the U.S made 'Switchblade' drones. These kamikaze drones are manufactured by AeroVironment, an American defence contractor. The small and lightweight drones are effectively remote-controlled bombs.

Anti-armour loitering munitions have more range and precision and cost less than present-day anti-tank weapons. It basically means the drone can orbit the battlefield until its ground controller guides it onto a target. The advantage of having loitering ammunition is that it has the ability to patrol for extended periods, remain hidden and then immediately strike stationary or moving targets.&nbsp;

With the west unwilling to provide its fighter jets, a proposal floated by Poland which was shot down by the U.S, the drones are a relatively cheap and very cost-effective means of destruction. The Ukrainian army has suffered heavy losses and it’s a David vs Goliath battle.

But these tactical drones are lightweight and can be launched from a tube-like mortar shell and require minimum handling &amp; training, unlike other weaponry.

The Switchblade 600 weighs 22 Kg and can hover over a target for 40 minutes before zooming down at speeds of 185kph. It is programmed and equipped to pierce armour and destroy a tank or an armoured vehicle. These Switchblades are designed to be easily portable, fitting into a rucksack and perfectly suits the Ukrainian army which along with the volunteers is giving a tough fight to the Russian troops.&nbsp;

Mike McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, reveals that the U.S is indeed providing advanced anti-aircraft weapon systems which would give Ukraine an edge as it's taken on a much superior adversary in Russia.&nbsp;

Moscow isn't taking the bonhomie between Ukraine &amp; West kindly. On Sunday, a barrage of Russian missiles hit a large Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. A local Ukrainian official said 35 people were killed and 134 were wounded.

Russia's defence ministry says a large number of weapons supplied by foreign nations were being stored at the sprawling training facility. The attack on the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a base just 25 km from the Polish border. It had previously hosted NATO military instructors.&nbsp;

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday (12th March 2022) said its troops could target supplies of Western weapons in Ukraine. He told the state television, 'We warned the United States that the orchestrated pumping of weapons from a number of countries is not just a dangerous move, it is a move that turns these convoys into legitimate targets'.&nbsp;

Clearly, Moscow has made its intent clear and with this latest move of providing Ukraine with weapons that could inflict heavy damage to the Russian forces, the tensions continue to only rise further.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian onslaught is getting deadlier by the day and the Ukrainian resistance is getting fiercer. And the west continues to keep President Volodymyr Zelensky at an arm's length.

The Russian onslaught is getting deadlier by the day and the Ukrainian resistance is getting fiercer. And the west continues to keep President Volodymyr Zelensky at an arm's length. But that could change as the Biden administration is going to arm Ukraine with killer drones. US President Joe Biden has announced an additional $800 million in security assistance to Ukraine on Wednesday. Biden says America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend itself. "This new package on its own is going to provide unprecedented assistance to Ukraine, and includes 800 anti-aircraft systems," Biden said, to stop Russian planes and helicopters attacking Ukrainians. In a landmark virtual address to the U.S Congress, Ukraine's leader on Wednesday made an emotive appeal to lawmakers for greater Western intervention against Russia. Zelensky invoked September 11 and Pearl Harbor during his impassioned address to the US Congress, imploring Washington to step up military aid and impose a no-fly zone to counter the Russian invasion closing in on Kyiv. But that request involves a direct engagement of NATO forces and has been repeatedly refused by the West. (Image: AeroVironment) Among the weaponry which Washington is sending, the most potent in the U.S made 'Switchblade' drones. These kamikaze drones are manufactured by AeroVironment, an American defence contractor. The small and lightweight drones are effectively remote-controlled bombs. Anti-armour loitering munitions have more range and precision and cost less than present-day anti-tank weapons. It basically means the drone can orbit the battlefield until its ground controller guides it onto a target. The advantage of having loitering ammunition is that it has the ability to patrol for extended periods, remain hidden and then immediately strike stationary or moving targets. With the west unwilling to provide its fighter jets, a proposal floated by Poland which was shot down by the U.S, the drones are a relatively cheap and very cost-effective means of destruction. The Ukrainian army has suffered heavy losses and it’s a David vs Goliath battle. But these tactical drones are lightweight and can be launched from a tube-like mortar shell and require minimum handling & training, unlike other weaponry. The Switchblade 600 weighs 22 Kg and can hover over a target for 40 minutes before zooming down at speeds of 185kph. It is programmed and equipped to pierce armour and destroy a tank or an armoured vehicle. These Switchblades are designed to be easily portable, fitting into a rucksack and perfectly suits the Ukrainian army which along with the volunteers is giving a tough fight to the Russian troops. Mike McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, reveals that the U.S is indeed providing advanced anti-aircraft weapon systems which would give Ukraine an edge as it's taken on a much superior adversary in Russia. Moscow isn't taking the bonhomie between Ukraine & West kindly. On Sunday, a barrage of Russian missiles hit a large Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. A local Ukrainian official said 35 people were killed and 134 were wounded. Russia's defence ministry says a large number of weapons supplied by foreign nations were being stored at the sprawling training facility. The attack on the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a base just 25 km from the Polish border. It had previously hosted NATO military instructors. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday (12th March 2022) said its troops could target supplies of Western weapons in Ukraine. He told the state television, 'We warned the United States that the orchestrated pumping of weapons from a number of countries is not just a dangerous move, it is a move that turns these convoys into legitimate targets'. Clearly, Moscow has made its intent clear and with this latest move of providing Ukraine with weapons that could inflict heavy damage to the Russian forces, the tensions continue to only rise further. (With inputs from agencies)

US sending Switchblade drones to Ukraine

'Over 2,500 civilians have been killed in Russian army attacks on the besieged city of Mariupol, Ukraine', said Oleksiy Arestovych, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Over 2,500 civilians killed in Russian attacks on Mariupol

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 continues to intensify the invasion of Ukraine with increased shelling and airstrikes. On Thursday (March 17), US and Ukrainian officials have said that Russian forces killed civilians waiting in line for bread and sheltering in a theatre in the besieged port city of Mariupol. Mariupol city authorities said in a statement on Telegram, "Russia purposefully destroyed the Drama Theatre, where hundreds of people are hiding." The foreign ministry of Ukraine said that Russian forces dropped a powerful bomb on a theatre. The bombing left many civilians trapped and an unknown number of casualties. ALSO READ | US cancels license of China-owned telecom company As per a photo released by officials of the theatre building, the middle part can be seen completely destroyed. A cloud of thick white smoke can be seen rising from the rubble. The bomb was apparently dropped on the building from an airplane. As per the satellite images of the theatre taken on March 14, the word "children" was clearly etched out in the ground in Russian on either side of the building. The satellite images were released by private satellite company Maxar The official statement read: "It is impossible to find words to describe the level of cynicism and cruelty, with which Russian invaders are destroying peaceful residents of a Ukrainian city by the sea." ALSO READ | US Secret Service says 'involuntary celebate' men are a rising threat This Maxar satellite image released on March 16, 2022, shows the Mariupol Drama Theater in Mariupol, Ukraine, on March 14, 2022. BBC reported citing the deputy mayor Sergei Orlov that around 1,000 people had sought refuge in the building, however, the number of casualties could not be confirmed. Local authorities say at least 2,400 people have been killed in Mariupol since the start of the war. Meanwhile, Russia's defence ministry denied that its forces bombed the city on Wednesday and stated the building was destroyed in an explosion set off by Ukraine's nationalist Azov battalion. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba shared before and after images that showed the extent of the destruction. He said, Another horrendous war crime in Mariupol. Massive Russian attack on the Drama Theater where hundreds of innocent civilians were hiding." "The building is now fully ruined. Russians could not have not known this was a civilian shelter. Save Mariupol! Stop Russian war criminals!" he added. Another horrendous war crime in Mariupol. Massive Russian attack on the Drama Theater where hundreds of innocent civilians were hiding. The building is now fully ruined. Russians could not have not known this was a civilian shelter. Save Mariupol! Stop Russian war criminals! pic.twitter.com/bIQLxe7mli — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) March 16, 2022 × WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine war triggers global food crisis ×

Ukraine under attack: Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image

The US is hoping that China will help the west isolate Russia. Moscow is hoping that China will help them evade western sanctions. Has India's neutrality backfired? Will the US and Russia now help India contain China? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Is India's neutrality on Ukraine backfiring?

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has said there is "room for compromise" with Russia. What are Moscow's demands? What will be the terms of a truce? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: Is the peace deal possible?

Ukraine and Russia make up more than 25% of global wheat exports. They also export 75% of the world's sunflower oil. The war in Ukraine could sever supply lines and trigger a food crisis. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ukraine war triggers global food crisis

A video purportedly showing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky capitulating to Russian demands drew criticism online. Facebook has reportedly removed the video from its platform. There are warnings from experts that more sophisticated attempts to spread fake news may be made as the Ukraine conflict goes on.

The video appeared to show an ashen-faced Zelenskiy speaking from the presidential lectern and urging his countrymen to down their weapons in the face of Russian invaders.

It is not clear whether anyone was convinced. Internet users immediately flagged the discrepancies between the skin tone on Zelenskiy's neck and face, the odd accent in the video, and the pixelation around his head. A Facebook official later said&nbsp; the company was removing the footage from its platform.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/villas-in-miami-putin-lashes-out-scum-and-traitors-amid-ukraine-war-463167">'Villas in Miami': Putin lashes out at 'scum' and 'traitors' amid Ukraine war</a>

Nina Schick, the author of "Deepfakes," said the video looked like "an absolutely terrible faceswap," referring to programs that can digitally graft one person's face onto another's body -- part of a wider family of computer techniques that can create hyperrealistic forgeries known as "deepfakes."

Television station Ukraine24 said in a Facebook post that the video was broadcast by "enemy hackers" and was "FAKE! FAKE!" The station could not immediately be reached for further detail and Ukraine's cyber watchdog agency did not immediately return messages seeking comment. But Ukraine's Ministry of Defense later released a video from the real Zelenskiy apparently dismissing the footage as a "childish provocation."

"We are not going to lay down any weapons until our victory," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-under-attack-russia-attacks-mariupol-theatre-sheltering-hundreds-of-civilians-see-satellite-image-463012">Ukraine under attack: Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image</a>

Ukrainian officials have been warning of the danger of deepfakes, especially after Moscow's forces were denied a quick victory on the battlefield following their Feb. 24 invasion.

Two weeks ago, Ukraine's military intelligence agency put out a short video alerting the country to the danger of deepfakes, alleging that the Kremlin was preparing a stunt involving one.

The Russian Embassy in Washington did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

Schick called the fake Zelenskiy video "very crude," but warned that the it was a matter of time before the technology became more accessible.

"Expect fakes like this to become easier to produce while appearing highly authentic," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A video purportedly showing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky capitulating to Russian demands drew criticism online. Facebook has reportedly removed the video from its platform.

A video purportedly showing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky capitulating to Russian demands drew criticism online. Facebook has reportedly removed the video from its platform. There are warnings from experts that more sophisticated attempts to spread fake news may be made as the Ukraine conflict goes on. The video appeared to show an ashen-faced Zelenskiy speaking from the presidential lectern and urging his countrymen to down their weapons in the face of Russian invaders. It is not clear whether anyone was convinced. Internet users immediately flagged the discrepancies between the skin tone on Zelenskiy's neck and face, the odd accent in the video, and the pixelation around his head. A Facebook official later said the company was removing the footage from its platform. Also Read | 'Villas in Miami': Putin lashes out at 'scum' and 'traitors' amid Ukraine war Nina Schick, the author of "Deepfakes," said the video looked like "an absolutely terrible faceswap," referring to programs that can digitally graft one person's face onto another's body -- part of a wider family of computer techniques that can create hyperrealistic forgeries known as "deepfakes." Television station Ukraine24 said in a Facebook post that the video was broadcast by "enemy hackers" and was "FAKE! FAKE!" The station could not immediately be reached for further detail and Ukraine's cyber watchdog agency did not immediately return messages seeking comment. But Ukraine's Ministry of Defense later released a video from the real Zelenskiy apparently dismissing the footage as a "childish provocation." "We are not going to lay down any weapons until our victory," he said. Also Read | Ukraine under attack: Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image Ukrainian officials have been warning of the danger of deepfakes, especially after Moscow's forces were denied a quick victory on the battlefield following their Feb. 24 invasion. Two weeks ago, Ukraine's military intelligence agency put out a short video alerting the country to the danger of deepfakes, alleging that the Kremlin was preparing a stunt involving one. The Russian Embassy in Washington did not immediately return a message seeking comment. Schick called the fake Zelenskiy video "very crude," but warned that the it was a matter of time before the technology became more accessible. "Expect fakes like this to become easier to produce while appearing highly authentic," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Deepfake video of Ukraine President Zelensky shared online

Russia Ukraine conflict has now entered its fourth week and diplomatic efforts are on to secure a ceasefire and yet reports of civilian deaths in Ukrainian cities continue to make headlines.

What lies ahead in Russia-Ukraine war? What are the people in Ukraine feeling?

NATO has rejected requests for an armed peace mission in Ukraine. Earlier on Tuesday, NATO member Poland had suggested that Western alliance must provide humanitarian to Ukraine. Instead NATO is now looking to booster its Eastern flank following in the Russian invasion. This is what NATO chief had to say after meeting NATO Defence Ministers.

NATO rejects Ukraine 'Peace Mission', instead seeks to bolster its eastern flank

The group of four Nepali nationals have returned and reached their homes safely under Operation Ganga by the Indian Government. Nepal thanked India for its timely evacuation from war-hit Ukraine.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Roshan Jha (24), a Nepali national who was rescued by the Indian government from Ukraine, shared his plight and expressed gratitude to Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Jha is a third-year student at Kharkiv National Medical University, who sought shelter in Ukraine’s subway system for five days to escape Russian shelling.&nbsp;

"There was firing and airstrikes happening above my house. The situation was tense. We slept in the metro station for almost five days with no water and food supply. We were out of cash and ATMs were also not working, "Jha told WION.&nbsp;

"On March 1, we left the metro station even with heavy shelling taking place to reach the railway station. We were on our own and we had to reach the Poland border from there we were assisted by the Indian Government," he added.&nbsp;

It took almost 12 hours for Jha and his Indian friends to cross the Poland border due to heavy snowfall.&nbsp;

Jha belongs to a small town called&nbsp;Badribas&nbsp;in&nbsp;Mahottari district of&nbsp;Nepal, and with the help of the Indian authorities he reached home to his family on March 9.&nbsp;

"I would like to thank the Indian Government, the Indian embassy there for evacuating us and arranging our travel. There was also a lot of help from the Nepal Government, the Nepal embassy in Berlin, and India to reach my home. I especially like to thank the Indian Government to evacuate us from Poland under Operation Ganga," Jha added.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old student also said that at the Poland border he was jostled by the Ukrainian nationals.&nbsp;Scores of Ukrainian nationals are leaving the country and seeking shelter in Poland.&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Saturday expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for evacuating four Nepali nationals from Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Four Nepali nationals have just arrived in Nepal from Ukraine via India. Thank you Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for the assistance in repatriating Nepali nationals through Operation Ganga," tweeted Deuba.

The group of four Nepali nationals have returned and reached their homes safely under Operation Ganga by the Indian Government. Nepal thanked India for its timely evacuation from war-hit Ukraine.

The group of four Nepali nationals have returned and reached their homes safely under Operation Ganga by the Indian Government. Nepal thanked India for its timely evacuation from war-hit Ukraine. Speaking to WION, Roshan Jha (24), a Nepali national who was rescued by the Indian government from Ukraine, shared his plight and expressed gratitude to Indian authorities. Jha is a third-year student at Kharkiv National Medical University, who sought shelter in Ukraine’s subway system for five days to escape Russian shelling. "There was firing and airstrikes happening above my house. The situation was tense. We slept in the metro station for almost five days with no water and food supply. We were out of cash and ATMs were also not working, "Jha told WION. "On March 1, we left the metro station even with heavy shelling taking place to reach the railway station. We were on our own and we had to reach the Poland border from there we were assisted by the Indian Government," he added. It took almost 12 hours for Jha and his Indian friends to cross the Poland border due to heavy snowfall. Jha belongs to a small town called Badribas in Mahottari district of Nepal, and with the help of the Indian authorities he reached home to his family on March 9. "I would like to thank the Indian Government, the Indian embassy there for evacuating us and arranging our travel. There was also a lot of help from the Nepal Government, the Nepal embassy in Berlin, and India to reach my home. I especially like to thank the Indian Government to evacuate us from Poland under Operation Ganga," Jha added. The 24-year-old student also said that at the Poland border he was jostled by the Ukrainian nationals. Scores of Ukrainian nationals are leaving the country and seeking shelter in Poland. Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Saturday expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for evacuating four Nepali nationals from Ukraine. "Four Nepali nationals have just arrived in Nepal from Ukraine via India. Thank you Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for the assistance in repatriating Nepali nationals through Operation Ganga," tweeted Deuba.

Nepalese man reunites with his family, thanks India for evacuation from Ukraine

Ukraine has rejected a Russian plan to become 'neutral' like Sweden or Austria. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that peace negotiations must lead to a fair deal for Ukraine that includes reliable security guarantees that protect it from future threats.

Ukraine rejects Russia's 'neutral' proposal, demands legally binding security guarantees

As the Russian-Ukrainian conflict enters its 4th week, the Russian president Putin delivered a stark warning to West and called for natural unnecessary cleansing of the Russian society. The Kremlin leader said the West was enforced using the fifth column to try and divide the Russian society. He accused the Western alliance of funding misinformation to cause civil friction so as to achieve the ultimate goal of Russian destruction.

Kremlin President Vladimir Putin delivers stark warning to West

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky virtually addressed the Germany parliament and urged for a help to destroy the new "Wall" Russia was erecting in Europe. Ahead of his address, German MPs gave Zelensky a standing ovation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivers a speech before Germany's Bundestag

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Russia to immediately suspend its military action in Ukraine, saying it is profoundly concerned by Moscow’s use of force.

World court orders Russia to immediately halt invasion of Ukraine

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