It has been nearly three weeks since Russia invaded Ukraine. Recently, Russia has sanctioned top American leaders and the list includes US president Joe Biden, Blinken and other key members of Biden's team.

Russia sanctions top American leaders, Joe Biden and several top US officials on the list

Several people are still stuck in underground shelters and basements as the city faces non-stop bombardment from Russian forces.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: First evacuees from Mariupol reach Zaporizhzhia

In the sanctions game, Russia has sanctioned 313 Canadians including Canadian PM Trudeau.

Russia Ukraine War: Russia sanctions 313 Canadians including PM Trudeau

It is day 21 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Recently, 3 European leaders met with Zelensky in Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict enters day 21: European leaders meet Zelensky in Kyiv

SpaceX owner and Tesla CEO Elon Musk is facing inflationary pressure due to Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Price of commodities soar to new highs, Elon Musk faces inflationary pressure

WION's correspondent Anas Mallick brings us exclusive report from Kyiv uh about what things are looking like on the ground focusing on how citizens were lining up outside the grocery stores before that curfew was put in place as there are growing concerns over supplies running out.

Russia Ukraine crisis: Kyiv imposes lockdown, WION reports from frontlines

President Volodomyr Zelensky&nbsp;of Ukraine made an urgent and emotional appeal to Congress on Wednesday to come to his country’s aid as it fights off a brutal Russian invasion, asking help protecting its air space, military assistance and stronger sanctions as part of what he cast as a war for the cause of democracy itself.

In a remarkably direct appeal by a wartime leader to policymakers in Washington, Zelensky&nbsp;addressed lawmakers on a large screen in a movie theater-style auditorium under the Capitol, invoking the memories of Pearl Harbor and the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks — when the United States came under attack — as he pleaded for support saying, “We need you right now.”

In remarks translated from Ukrainian, he said starkly: “I call on you to do more.”

Wearing a green T-shirt and seated next to a Ukrainian flag, Zelensky tailored his remarks to Americans and those who represent them, borrowing a phrase from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — “I have a dream” — as he asked for a no-fly zone over his country. “I have a need” to protect the sky, he said.

That request had little chance of being approved, given that it would thrust American pilots into direct confrontation with the Russians, and Zelensky&nbsp;quickly pivoted to something to which Republicans and Democrats have been far more receptive: asking for more weapons to enable his people to keep up the fight themselves.

He also asked lawmakers to get companies in their states and districts to send aid directly to Ukraine if they could.

Zelensky, whose background is in the entertainment industry, wrapped up his 18-minute speech with a graphic and wrenching video showing images of his war-torn country, including bombs exploding in cities around Ukraine, and civilians bloodied and killed by Russian attacks.

He concluded by speaking in English, calling upon the United States to take up what he portrayed as an obligation, given its place on the world stage to intervene in the conflict.

“To be the leader of the world means to be the leader of peace,” he said, as members of Congress grew visibly emotional.

As he addressed them directly, lawmakers sat rapt in their seats. Some scribbled notes, taking down quotations from his address, and many sniffled back tears.

“There was a collective holding of the breath,” said Sen. Angus King, I-Maine.

President Volodomyr Zelensky of Ukraine made an urgent and emotional appeal to Congress on Wednesday to come to his country’s aid as it fights off a brutal Russian invasion, asking help protecting its air space, military assistance and stronger sanctions as part of what he cast as a war for the cause of democracy itself.

President Volodomyr Zelensky of Ukraine made an urgent and emotional appeal to Congress on Wednesday to come to his country’s aid as it fights off a brutal Russian invasion, asking help protecting its air space, military assistance and stronger sanctions as part of what he cast as a war for the cause of democracy itself. In a remarkably direct appeal by a wartime leader to policymakers in Washington, Zelensky addressed lawmakers on a large screen in a movie theater-style auditorium under the Capitol, invoking the memories of Pearl Harbor and the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks — when the United States came under attack — as he pleaded for support saying, “We need you right now.” In remarks translated from Ukrainian, he said starkly: “I call on you to do more.” Wearing a green T-shirt and seated next to a Ukrainian flag, Zelensky tailored his remarks to Americans and those who represent them, borrowing a phrase from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — “I have a dream” — as he asked for a no-fly zone over his country. “I have a need” to protect the sky, he said. That request had little chance of being approved, given that it would thrust American pilots into direct confrontation with the Russians, and Zelensky quickly pivoted to something to which Republicans and Democrats have been far more receptive: asking for more weapons to enable his people to keep up the fight themselves. He also asked lawmakers to get companies in their states and districts to send aid directly to Ukraine if they could. Zelensky, whose background is in the entertainment industry, wrapped up his 18-minute speech with a graphic and wrenching video showing images of his war-torn country, including bombs exploding in cities around Ukraine, and civilians bloodied and killed by Russian attacks. He concluded by speaking in English, calling upon the United States to take up what he portrayed as an obligation, given its place on the world stage to intervene in the conflict. “To be the leader of the world means to be the leader of peace,” he said, as members of Congress grew visibly emotional. As he addressed them directly, lawmakers sat rapt in their seats. Some scribbled notes, taking down quotations from his address, and many sniffled back tears. “There was a collective holding of the breath,” said Sen. Angus King, I-Maine.

Zelensky delivers plea to Congress: 'I call on you to do more'

Iryna Matviyishyn a Ukrainian journalist joining us from Lyviv give a better sense of what things are looking like in western Ukraine which is now relatively safe, listen in.

Ukraine paying for NATO's gambles? Ukrainian journalist Iryna Matviyishyn answers

The curfew comes as Moscow has intensified attacks on Ukrainian cities, including the capital, Kyiv. Ukrainian's capital city Kyiv is under lockdown; a 35 hr long curfew was imposed earlier which will last till 7 am on thursday.

Kyiv imposes 35-hr-long lockdown; Curfew to last till thursday 7 am

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

A White House official said that the United States President Joe Biden will announce $800 million in new security assistance to Ukraine Wednesday (March 16).&nbsp;

The official further informed that the announcement is set to come soon after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addresses the US Congress.&nbsp;

News agency AFP quoted the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity on Tuesday (March 15), said that the announcement is expected to come at 11.45 am (local time).&nbsp;

The official said that the latest security aid brings "the total (aid) announced in the last week alone to $1 billion." However, the official didn't provide details on what would be included in the $800 million of security assistance.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/courage-of-true-friends-of-ukraine-european-leaders-defiant-visit-to-kyiv-amid-growing-tension-with-russia-462717">'Courage of true friends of Ukraine': European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia</a>

Previously, Biden had already authorized $200 million in additional military equipment to Ukraine on Saturday. That came on top of $350 million authorized by Washington, also for military equipment, on February 26 - at the time, the largest such package in US history.

The official said that in the past year, the US has provided over 600 Stinger missiles and approximately 2,600 Javelin anti-armour systems to Ukraine.&nbsp;

The US has also provided an assortment of radar systems, helicopters, grenade launchers, guns and ammunition and other equipment, the official added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imitation-the-sincerest-form-of-flattery-french-president-discards-suits-dons-sweatshirt-copying-zelensky-462399" hreflang="en">Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky?</a>

Meanwhile, Biden will make his first visit to Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine to discuss the crisis with NATO allies next week, the White House said.

Biden will attend a NATO leaders' meeting at the military alliance's headquarters in Brussels on March 24.

Also, NATO is set to tell its military commanders on Wednesday to draw up plans for new ways to deter Russia from future military action, including more troops and missile defences in eastern Europe, officials and diplomats said.

"We need to reset our military posture for this new reality. Ministers will start an important discussion on concrete measures to reinforce our security for the longer term, in all domains," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters on Tuesday.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;From repairing cars to converting Russian guns, this auto shop in Kyiv is helping Ukrainians

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(With inputs from agencies)

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. A White House official said that the United States President Joe Biden will announce $800 million in new security assistance to Ukraine Wednesday (March 16). The official further informed that the announcement is set to come soon after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addresses the US Congress. News agency AFP quoted the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity on Tuesday (March 15), said that the announcement is expected to come at 11.45 am (local time). The official said that the latest security aid brings "the total (aid) announced in the last week alone to $1 billion." However, the official didn't provide details on what would be included in the $800 million of security assistance. ALSO READ | 'Courage of true friends of Ukraine': European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia Previously, Biden had already authorized $200 million in additional military equipment to Ukraine on Saturday. That came on top of $350 million authorized by Washington, also for military equipment, on February 26 - at the time, the largest such package in US history. The official said that in the past year, the US has provided over 600 Stinger missiles and approximately 2,600 Javelin anti-armour systems to Ukraine. The US has also provided an assortment of radar systems, helicopters, grenade launchers, guns and ammunition and other equipment, the official added. ALSO READ | Imitation, the sincerest form of flattery: French President discards suits, dons sweatshirt. Copying Zelensky? Meanwhile, Biden will make his first visit to Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine to discuss the crisis with NATO allies next week, the White House said. Biden will attend a NATO leaders' meeting at the military alliance's headquarters in Brussels on March 24. Also, NATO is set to tell its military commanders on Wednesday to draw up plans for new ways to deter Russia from future military action, including more troops and missile defences in eastern Europe, officials and diplomats said. "We need to reset our military posture for this new reality. Ministers will start an important discussion on concrete measures to reinforce our security for the longer term, in all domains," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters on Tuesday. WATCH | From repairing cars to converting Russian guns, this auto shop in Kyiv is helping Ukrainians × (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Joe Biden to announce $800 million in new security aid to Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has made a speech to a joint session of congress he did not hold back openly challenging president Joe Biden to step up and prove that he is ready to lead the world in its resistance to Russia's aggression.

'Is it a lot to ask for a no-fly zone,' Zelenskyy calls on US to do more

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, there is a rising fear of potential nuclear incident. This has triggered panic buying of iodine tablets. But can iodine tablets really help against nuclear radiation?

Can iodine pills stop nuclear radiation? Why these tablets are going out-of-stock

The Russia and Ukraine conflict is raging. Russia is facing global isolation and an economic crisis with Western allies putting multiple sanctions on the country and big brands refusing to do business due to Russia's action during the Ukraine invasion.&nbsp;

The ongoing conflict has led to a massive loss of lives including children, with the death toll rising every day. The crisis also caused the destruction of property as Russia continues shelling and bombing Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;

The US and other NATO allies are calling for a ceasefire and diplomatic dialogues. They are also putting sanctions on Russia and Russians, expecting that Russian President Vladimir Putin will end the conflict.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a report published by Sputnik stated that the UK National Crime Agency (NCA) will cooperate with the country's intelligence services to identify assets that are allegedly kept by Putin and his associates in London.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-iodine-tablets-for-nuclear-risk-why-is-europe-rushing-to-buy-this-tablet-462841">Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet?</a>

A report by Telegraph on Wednesday (March 16) noted citing NCA sources that personal assets of Putin worth millions of dollars are stashed in London and the agency will work with MI5, MI6 and GCHQ agencies to&nbsp;attempt to track it down.&nbsp;

A source told the newspaper, "There are people working there now. This is what the 'kleptocracy' team will devote its time to. The unit will track down Putin's money and that of his cronies."&nbsp;

As per the paper, the probe into assets will not be simple and will also include Belarusian money in the UK. "We will use all legislative options and tactics available to the agency to prosecute corrupt elites who launder their assets in the UK," an NCA spokesperson said as quoted by the paper.&nbsp;

IN PICS&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-refugee-crisis-raises-other-concerns-feeling-women-minors-may-be-targetted-for-trafficking-462747" hreflang="en">Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women &amp; minors may be targetted for trafficking</a>&nbsp;

History books have noted that the growth of London as a centre for financial and professional services coincided with the collapse of the USSR and the rise of post-Soviet 'kleptocracies' in the 1990s.&nbsp;

These states and their elites have since become a major source of clients for UK-based services firms and investors in UK assets.

After Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Britain imposed sanctions to freeze the assets of the Russian President and country's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.&nbsp;

According to the UK sanctions list, Lavrov was a key decision-maker in Russia's government.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Maria Zakharova, who is Russia's Foreign Minister's spokeswoman said that neither Putin nor Lavrov had assets in the UK or anywhere else abroad.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Does Putin really want to stop this war or not?

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&nbsp;

The Russia and Ukraine conflict is raging. Russia is facing global isolation and an economic crisis with Western allies putting multiple sanctions on the country and big brands refusing to do business due to Russia's action during the Ukraine invasion.

The Russia and Ukraine conflict is raging. Russia is facing global isolation and an economic crisis with Western allies putting multiple sanctions on the country and big brands refusing to do business due to Russia's action during the Ukraine invasion. The ongoing conflict has led to a massive loss of lives including children, with the death toll rising every day. The crisis also caused the destruction of property as Russia continues shelling and bombing Ukrainian cities. The US and other NATO allies are calling for a ceasefire and diplomatic dialogues. They are also putting sanctions on Russia and Russians, expecting that Russian President Vladimir Putin will end the conflict. Meanwhile, a report published by Sputnik stated that the UK National Crime Agency (NCA) will cooperate with the country's intelligence services to identify assets that are allegedly kept by Putin and his associates in London. ALSO READ | Iodine tablets for nuclear risk. Why is Europe rushing to buy this tablet? A report by Telegraph on Wednesday (March 16) noted citing NCA sources that personal assets of Putin worth millions of dollars are stashed in London and the agency will work with MI5, MI6 and GCHQ agencies to attempt to track it down. A source told the newspaper, "There are people working there now. This is what the 'kleptocracy' team will devote its time to. The unit will track down Putin's money and that of his cronies." As per the paper, the probe into assets will not be simple and will also include Belarusian money in the UK. "We will use all legislative options and tactics available to the agency to prosecute corrupt elites who launder their assets in the UK," an NCA spokesperson said as quoted by the paper. IN PICS | Ukraine refugee crisis raises other concerns; fleeing women & minors may be targetted for trafficking History books have noted that the growth of London as a centre for financial and professional services coincided with the collapse of the USSR and the rise of post-Soviet 'kleptocracies' in the 1990s. These states and their elites have since become a major source of clients for UK-based services firms and investors in UK assets. After Putin ordered "military operations" in Ukraine on February 24, Britain imposed sanctions to freeze the assets of the Russian President and country's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. According to the UK sanctions list, Lavrov was a key decision-maker in Russia's government. Meanwhile, Maria Zakharova, who is Russia's Foreign Minister's spokeswoman said that neither Putin nor Lavrov had assets in the UK or anywhere else abroad. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Does Putin really want to stop this war or not? ×

Kleptocracy hunt: UK to go after Putin's London assets worth millions of pounds

The Ukrainian capital Kyiv braces for a siege. A group of medical students have set up a temporary field hospital in a bomb shelter.

Ukrainian medical students set up temporary hospitals inside bomb shelters

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has warned that nine out of 10 Ukrainians could face extreme economic vulnerability if the Russian war goes on for another year.

The early projection released by the UNDP on Wednesday stated that the ongoing conflict can undo 18 years of socio-economic achievements, with almost one-third of the population living below the poverty line and a further 62 per cent at high risk of falling into poverty within the next 12 months.

“The war in Ukraine is causing unimaginable human suffering with a tragic loss of life and the displacement of millions of people. While the need for immediate humanitarian assistance to Ukrainians is of the utmost importance, the acute development impacts of a protracted war are now becoming more apparent,” said UNDP Administrator, Achim Steiner on the official website.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/struggling-russia-deploying-more-reinforcements-from-across-country-into-ukraine-uk-intel-462861">‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements from across country into Ukraine: UK intel</a><o:p></o:p>

“An alarming economic decline, and the suffering and hardship it will bring to an already traumatised population must now come into sharper focus. There is still time to halt this grim trajectory.”

Before the launch of the Russian invasion, an estimated 2 per cent of Ukrainians lived under the poverty line, but the situation will get worse if the conflict goes on, according to Steiner.

"We estimate that up to 18 years of development gains of Ukraine could simply be wiped out in a matter of 12 to 18 months," Steiner said in an interview with Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fox-news-veteran-war-zone-photographer-ukrainian-journalist-killed-in-ukraine-462764">Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine</a><o:p></o:p>

Earlier, Ukraine’s government economic adviser Oleg Ustenko said that the Russian forces have destroyed $100bn worth of infrastructure, buildings, roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and other physical assets.

It was further stated that 50 per cent of Ukrainian businesses had shut down completely.

Watch |&nbsp;Zelenskyy: Russia-Ukraine Peace talks 'sound realistic'

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(With agency inputs)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has warned that nine out of 10 Ukrainians could face extreme economic vulnerability if the Russian war goes on for another year.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has warned that nine out of 10 Ukrainians could face extreme economic vulnerability if the Russian war goes on for another year. The early projection released by the UNDP on Wednesday stated that the ongoing conflict can undo 18 years of socio-economic achievements, with almost one-third of the population living below the poverty line and a further 62 per cent at high risk of falling into poverty within the next 12 months. “The war in Ukraine is causing unimaginable human suffering with a tragic loss of life and the displacement of millions of people. While the need for immediate humanitarian assistance to Ukrainians is of the utmost importance, the acute development impacts of a protracted war are now becoming more apparent,” said UNDP Administrator, Achim Steiner on the official website. Also read | ‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements from across country into Ukraine: UK intel “An alarming economic decline, and the suffering and hardship it will bring to an already traumatised population must now come into sharper focus. There is still time to halt this grim trajectory.” Before the launch of the Russian invasion, an estimated 2 per cent of Ukrainians lived under the poverty line, but the situation will get worse if the conflict goes on, according to Steiner. "We estimate that up to 18 years of development gains of Ukraine could simply be wiped out in a matter of 12 to 18 months," Steiner said in an interview with Reuters. Also read | Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine Earlier, Ukraine’s government economic adviser Oleg Ustenko said that the Russian forces have destroyed $100bn worth of infrastructure, buildings, roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and other physical assets. It was further stated that 50 per cent of Ukrainian businesses had shut down completely. Watch | Zelenskyy: Russia-Ukraine Peace talks 'sound realistic' (With agency inputs)

Nine out of 10 Ukrainians could be pushed into poverty if war continues: UNDP

Ukraine’s interior ministry advisor Vadym Denysenko said on Wednesday that around 20,000 civilians have successfully left the city of Mariupol in private cars. <o:p></o:p>

The residents of the port city were trapped without electricity and running water for the past two weeks due to heavy shelling from the Russian forces and were in need of urgent evacuation, according to the Ukrainian officials.<o:p></o:p>

Of these cars, 570 have arrived in the city of Zaporizhzhia to the northwest, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's deputy chief of staff Kyrylo Tymoshenko said on Telegram.

<o:p>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/struggling-russia-deploying-more-reinforcements-from-across-country-into-ukraine-uk-intel-462861">&nbsp;</a></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/struggling-russia-deploying-more-reinforcements-from-across-country-into-ukraine-uk-intel-462861">‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements from across country into Ukraine: UK intel</a> <o:p></o:p>

Those in the remaining cars were forced to spend the night along the route, Tymoshenko added.<o:p></o:p>

According to an AFP report, city officials believe that more than 2100 residents have been killed in Mariupol since the beginning of the Russian invasion and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that it was not able to deliver aid to the city amid the ‘dire situation’.<o:p></o:p>

"The bottom line is that hundreds of thousands of people are still suffering," the ICRC said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fox-news-veteran-war-zone-photographer-ukrainian-journalist-killed-in-ukraine-462764">Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine</a>

Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said that altogether, nearly 29,000 people managed to use humanitarian corridor to flee the city on Tuesday.

<o:p></o:p>While Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the talks between the two nations regarding the conclusion of the conflict were becoming "more realistic", Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that there was “some hope for compromise” in his latest interview.<o:p></o:p>

"Neutral status is now being seriously discussed along, of course, with security guarantees," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said told RBC news. "Now this very thing is being discussed in negotiations - there are absolutely specific formulations which in my view are close to an agreement," he added.

<o:p>Watch |&nbsp;</o:p>Russia-Ukraine Conflict: First evacuees from Mariupol reach Zaporizhzhia

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-first-evacuees-from-mariupol-reach-zaporizhzhia-462749/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With agency inputs)<o:p></o:p>

Ukraine’s interior ministry advisor Vadym Denysenko said on Wednesday that around 20,000 civilians have successfully left the city of Mariupol in private cars. The residents of the port city were trapped without electricity and running water for the past two weeks due to heavy shelling from the Russian forces and were in need of urgent evacuation, according to the Ukrainian officials.

Ukraine’s interior ministry advisor Vadym Denysenko said on Wednesday that around 20,000 civilians have successfully left the city of Mariupol in private cars. The residents of the port city were trapped without electricity and running water for the past two weeks due to heavy shelling from the Russian forces and were in need of urgent evacuation, according to the Ukrainian officials. Of these cars, 570 have arrived in the city of Zaporizhzhia to the northwest, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's deputy chief of staff Kyrylo Tymoshenko said on Telegram. Also read | ‘Struggling’ Russia deploying more reinforcements from across country into Ukraine: UK intel Those in the remaining cars were forced to spend the night along the route, Tymoshenko added. According to an AFP report, city officials believe that more than 2100 residents have been killed in Mariupol since the beginning of the Russian invasion and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said that it was not able to deliver aid to the city amid the ‘dire situation’. "The bottom line is that hundreds of thousands of people are still suffering," the ICRC said. Also read | Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said that altogether, nearly 29,000 people managed to use humanitarian corridor to flee the city on Tuesday. While Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the talks between the two nations regarding the conclusion of the conflict were becoming "more realistic", Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that there was “some hope for compromise” in his latest interview. "Neutral status is now being seriously discussed along, of course, with security guarantees," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said told RBC news. "Now this very thing is being discussed in negotiations - there are absolutely specific formulations which in my view are close to an agreement," he added. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: First evacuees from Mariupol reach Zaporizhzhia (With agency inputs)

20,000 civilians escape Mariupol through humanitarian corridor in private cars

Russia says that it has received written guarantee from Washington that western sanctions on Russia over Ukraine will not affect cooperation with Iran.

US says no sanctions on Russian nuclear participation

In a recent update of Ukraine-Russia crisis, Russia has targeted Ukraine arms factories. Is this an attempt to weaken Ukraine's air power?

Russia targets arms factories, Antonov aircraft factory comes under attack

It is day 21 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. However, talks between Russia and Ukraine are still going on.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict enters day 21: Zelensky says peace talks 'Sound Realistic'

It is day 21 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Kyiv imposed 35 hour lockdown due to attacks.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict: Kyiv imposes 35-hour lockdown

Amid Russia-Ukraine conflict, Ukrainian President Zelensky said that his country must accept that it will not become a member of the NATO.

Russia-Ukraine war enters day 21: Zelensky steps up criticism of NATO

It is day 21 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. President Zelensky repeated his appeal for no-fly zone.

Ukraine under attack: War-hit President Zelensky appeals for no-fly zone

It is day 21 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and it seems Vladimir Putin is in no mood of stopping the war. Russia has hardened its demand since the invasion.

Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Does Putin really want to stop this war or not?

As western countries look for alternate sources of oil, British PM Boris Johnson will travel to Saudi as part of his drive to help lessen the west dependency on Russia.

Saudi, UAE now key players in stabilising oil markets

It is day 21 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Kyiv is under curfew as Russian forces targeting residential areas. Watch this report.

Kyiv under lockdown: Russian forces target residential areas

US President Joe Biden will be making his very first visit to Europe since Russia invaded into Ukraine. This will be a summit to assess where NATO stands at this point.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Joe Biden to visit Europe next week to assert 'Iron-clad' commitment

Recent attack in Kyiv killed 2 journalists working for Fox News network. They were killed after incoming fire hit their vehicle.

Ukraine under attack: Veteran Journalist working for Fox News killed while reporting near Kyiv

Russia-Ukraine War Update: Zelensky says, 'Ukraine must accept it won't join NATO'

Talks between Ukraine and Russia continue even as Russian forces continue to bombard Ukrainian cities and on an optimistic note President Zelenskyy said that peace talks were sounding more realistic but there was still more time needed for a breakthrough.

Zelenskyy: Russia-Ukraine Peace talks 'sound realistic'

The United Nations (UN) said on Wednesday that $4.3bn is the amount that the organisation will need to address Yemen’s food shortages this year. The UN believes that around 161,000 people are likely to experience famine in 2022 and they called it “the world's worst humanitarian crisis”.

Ahead of a high-level pledging conference which will be co-hosted by Sweden and Switzerland, the UN said that three out of four Yemenis will depend on food assistance in 2022 and it hopes that the participating nations will be able to pledge the necessary amount for the aid of the war-torn nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-joe-biden-to-announce-800-million-in-new-security-aid-to-ukraine-462729">Joe Biden to announce $800 million in new security aid to Ukraine</a>

“As of now, funding is drying up and agencies are stopping their work in Yemen,” UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths told Al-Jazeera. “We need to replenish the food pipeline, provide shelter and send a message to Yemenis that we do not forget them.”

According to an Associated Press report, at the beginning of the year, the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) was forced to reduce food rations for eight million people due to a funding shortage, with households receiving barely half of the WFP standard daily minimum food basket.

The report also stated that last year's conference raised only $1.7bn for Yemen after&nbsp;the UN asked for $3.85bn.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/refugee-exodus-in-20-days-28-million-people-have-fled-ukraine-462361">&nbsp;In 20 days, 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine</a>

The war in Yemen started back in 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi rebels captured a major part of the country’s northern region&nbsp;including capital Sanaa. Months later, an US-backed coalition led by Saudi Arabia intervened in order to defeat the rebels and restore the recognised government.

The situation in Yemen has been&nbsp;grim for quite some time and it seems that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis may end up making things worse. Ukraine supplies around 40 per cent of Yemen’s grains and with the country under attack, the supplies may stop for the time being.

(With agency inputs)

The United Nations (UN) said on Wednesday that $4.3bn is the amount that the organisation will need to address Yemen’s food shortages this year. The UN believes that around 161,000 people are likely to experience famine in 2022 and they called it “the world's worst humanitarian crisis”.

The United Nations (UN) said on Wednesday that $4.3bn is the amount that the organisation will need to address Yemen’s food shortages this year. The UN believes that around 161,000 people are likely to experience famine in 2022 and they called it “the world's worst humanitarian crisis”. Ahead of a high-level pledging conference which will be co-hosted by Sweden and Switzerland, the UN said that three out of four Yemenis will depend on food assistance in 2022 and it hopes that the participating nations will be able to pledge the necessary amount for the aid of the war-torn nation. Also read | Joe Biden to announce $800 million in new security aid to Ukraine “As of now, funding is drying up and agencies are stopping their work in Yemen,” UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths told Al-Jazeera. “We need to replenish the food pipeline, provide shelter and send a message to Yemenis that we do not forget them.” According to an Associated Press report, at the beginning of the year, the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) was forced to reduce food rations for eight million people due to a funding shortage, with households receiving barely half of the WFP standard daily minimum food basket. The report also stated that last year's conference raised only $1.7bn for Yemen after the UN asked for $3.85bn. Also read | In 20 days, 2.8 million people have fled Ukraine The war in Yemen started back in 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi rebels captured a major part of the country’s northern region including capital Sanaa. Months later, an US-backed coalition led by Saudi Arabia intervened in order to defeat the rebels and restore the recognised government. The situation in Yemen has been grim for quite some time and it seems that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis may end up making things worse. Ukraine supplies around 40 per cent of Yemen’s grains and with the country under attack, the supplies may stop for the time being. (With agency inputs)

$4.3bn needed to prevent Yemen hunger crisis, says UN

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Tuesday (March 15) said that India's oil purchases from Russia would not violate any of the sanctions imposed by the United States on that country.&nbsp;

Recently, reports emerged that India was planning to buy "discounted crude oil" from Russia. On being asked about the same during her briefing, Psaki said, "Our message to any country continues to be that obviously abide by the sanctions that we have put in place and recommended."&nbsp;

The White House Press Secretary further added, "I don't believe this would be violating that." However, she made a moral appeal to cut off petroleum commerce with Russia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fox-news-veteran-war-zone-photographer-ukrainian-journalist-killed-in-ukraine-462764">Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine</a>

She said, "Think about where you want to stand when the history books are written. In this moment in time any support for Russia, the Russian leadership, is support for an invasion that obviously is having a devastating impact".&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden has stopped the import of oil, gas and coal to the US from Russia but there's no ban on other countries to import from Russia. As reports have mentioned that NATO allies of the US continue to import Russian gas and petroleum.&nbsp;

Amid rising oil prices, India's Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said as quoted by news agencies that "discussions are underway" for buying oil from Russia. He added that "there are several issues to be gone into like how much oil is available", as well as payment for it and transportation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-joe-biden-to-announce-800-million-in-new-security-aid-to-ukraine-462729">Russia-Ukraine conflict: Joe Biden to announce $800 million in new security aid to Ukraine</a>

Oil&nbsp;prices rose as much as $3 on Wednesday, bouncing back after earlier declines.&nbsp;

The Indian rupee firmed on Wednesday, tracking gains in emerging market assets on the back of weak global crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;prices.&nbsp;

Most emerging Asian stock markets advanced, buoyed by a fall in China's COVID-19 cases and hopes of progress in Russian-Ukraine peace talks.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Russia quits council of Europe before vote on expulsion

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(With inputs from agencies)

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Tuesday (March 15) said that India's oil purchases from Russia would not violate any of the sanctions imposed by the United States on that country.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki on Tuesday (March 15) said that India's oil purchases from Russia would not violate any of the sanctions imposed by the United States on that country. Recently, reports emerged that India was planning to buy "discounted crude oil" from Russia. On being asked about the same during her briefing, Psaki said, "Our message to any country continues to be that obviously abide by the sanctions that we have put in place and recommended." The White House Press Secretary further added, "I don't believe this would be violating that." However, she made a moral appeal to cut off petroleum commerce with Russia. ALSO READ | Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine She said, "Think about where you want to stand when the history books are written. In this moment in time any support for Russia, the Russian leadership, is support for an invasion that obviously is having a devastating impact". US President Joe Biden has stopped the import of oil, gas and coal to the US from Russia but there's no ban on other countries to import from Russia. As reports have mentioned that NATO allies of the US continue to import Russian gas and petroleum. Amid rising oil prices, India's Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said as quoted by news agencies that "discussions are underway" for buying oil from Russia. He added that "there are several issues to be gone into like how much oil is available", as well as payment for it and transportation. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Joe Biden to announce $800 million in new security aid to Ukraine Oil prices rose as much as $3 on Wednesday, bouncing back after earlier declines. The Indian rupee firmed on Wednesday, tracking gains in emerging market assets on the back of weak global crude oil prices. Most emerging Asian stock markets advanced, buoyed by a fall in China's COVID-19 cases and hopes of progress in Russian-Ukraine peace talks. WATCH | Ukraine war: Russia quits council of Europe before vote on expulsion × (With inputs from agencies)

US reacts to reports that India planning to take up Russian discounted oil offer

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