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

President Joe Biden on Wednesday deemed Russian President Vladimir Putin a "war criminal". Biden's comment marks the first time the American president has used the harsh term to describe the Russian autocrat.

US President Joe Biden calls Russia's Vladimir Putin a 'war criminal' over Ukraine invasion

At least one person was killed and three wounded after remains of a downed missile hit a residential building in the Ukranian capital Kyiv. WION's Anas Mallick brings you more insights.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Remains of downed missile hit residential building

US Embassy in Ukraine on Wednesday said that Russian troops shot and killed 10 people standing in line for bread in the Ukranian city of Chernihiv.

Ukraine: 10 civilians killed while queuing to collect bread in Chernihiv

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the United Nations' top court ordered Moscow on Wednesday (March 16) to immediately halt its "military operations" in Ukraine.&nbsp;

The decision by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) comes as Russia has intensified shelling and airstrikes on Ukrainian cities with its forces in place around major cities including the Ukrainian capital Kyiv.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The court is profoundly concerned about the use of force by the Russian Federation which raises very serious issues in international law," pending the final decision in the case, presiding judge Joan Donoghue said at the hearing held at the court's headquarters at the Peace Palace building.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-compares-russian-invasion-to-911-and-pearl-harbor-attack-putin-says-invasion-on-course-463021">Zelensky compares Russian invasion to 9/11 and Pearl Harbor attack; Putin says invasion on course</a>

The top UN court for disputes between states said that it was "profoundly concerned" by Russia's use of force. "The Russian Federation shall immediately suspend the military operations that it commenced on Feb 24, 2022 on the territory of Ukraine," the ICJ judges said in a 13-2 decision.&nbsp;

Among other judges who voted against Russia, India's judge at the ICJ, Justice Dalveer Bhandari, also voted. The nomination of Justice Bhandari to the ICJ was done on the support of the government and various missions over a period of time.&nbsp;

Justice Bhandari's vote against Russia does not represent India's stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. It is an independent move.&nbsp;

At every stage, India vouched for diplomatic dialogues to resolve the issue and abstained from voting on the Ukraine-Russia issue in the UN.&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>

On the other hand, Kyiv hailed the verdict as a "complete victory" saying it will continue to pursue the case "until Ukrainian people can go back to normal life".&nbsp;

Although it is important to note that the rulings of the ICJ are binding, it has no direct means of enforcing them. There have been cases in the past, that countries have ignored them.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday welcomed the ruling by the ICJ on emergency measures as "a complete victory" in its case against Russia.&nbsp;

"The (ICJ) order is binding under international law. Russia must comply immediately. Ignoring the order will isolate Russia even further," Zelensky said on Twitter.

WATCH |&nbsp;World court orders Russia to immediately halt invasion of Ukraine

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As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the United Nations' top court ordered Moscow on Wednesday (March 16) to immediately halt its "military operations" in Ukraine.

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the United Nations' top court ordered Moscow on Wednesday (March 16) to immediately halt its "military operations" in Ukraine. The decision by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) comes as Russia has intensified shelling and airstrikes on Ukrainian cities with its forces in place around major cities including the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. "The court is profoundly concerned about the use of force by the Russian Federation which raises very serious issues in international law," pending the final decision in the case, presiding judge Joan Donoghue said at the hearing held at the court's headquarters at the Peace Palace building. ALSO READ | Zelensky compares Russian invasion to 9/11 and Pearl Harbor attack; Putin says invasion on course The top UN court for disputes between states said that it was "profoundly concerned" by Russia's use of force. "The Russian Federation shall immediately suspend the military operations that it commenced on Feb 24, 2022 on the territory of Ukraine," the ICJ judges said in a 13-2 decision. Among other judges who voted against Russia, India's judge at the ICJ, Justice Dalveer Bhandari, also voted. The nomination of Justice Bhandari to the ICJ was done on the support of the government and various missions over a period of time. Justice Bhandari's vote against Russia does not represent India's stance on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. It is an independent move. At every stage, India vouched for diplomatic dialogues to resolve the issue and abstained from voting on the Ukraine-Russia issue in the UN. ALSO READ | Russia attacks Mariupol theatre sheltering 'hundreds' of civilians - see satellite image On the other hand, Kyiv hailed the verdict as a "complete victory" saying it will continue to pursue the case "until Ukrainian people can go back to normal life". Although it is important to note that the rulings of the ICJ are binding, it has no direct means of enforcing them. There have been cases in the past, that countries have ignored them. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday welcomed the ruling by the ICJ on emergency measures as "a complete victory" in its case against Russia. "The (ICJ) order is binding under international law. Russia must comply immediately. Ignoring the order will isolate Russia even further," Zelensky said on Twitter. WATCH | World court orders Russia to immediately halt invasion of Ukraine ×

Dalveer Bhandari, Indian judge at ICJ, voted against Russia in Ukraine invasion case

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

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. The Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate with reports of massive loss of life and property in the Ukrainian cities that are being shelled by the Russian forces. Latest reports state that a French-Irish cameraman for US-based Fox News and a Ukrainian working as a producer for the US television network have been killed near Kyiv. The media outlet informed on Tuesday (March 15) that cameraperson Pierre Zakrzewski and producer Oleksandra Kuvshynova died during the conflict. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Joe Biden to announce $800 million in new security aid to Ukraine Zakrzewski was a veteran war-zone photographer who had covered multiple conflicts, including in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria. Benjamin Hall, another correspondent for the news outlet was also wounded when their vehicle was struck Monday by incoming fire in Horenka, outside the capital. Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott said that Hall, who is a Briton and works as the network's State Department correspondent, is currently in hospital in war-torn Ukraine. Mentioning Zakrzewski, Scott said, "Pierre was a war zone photographer who covered nearly every international story for Fox News from Iraq to Afghanistan to Syria during his long tenure with us." ALSO READ | 'Courage of true friends of Ukraine': European leaders' defiant visit to Kyiv amid growing tension with Russia The 55-year-old Zakrzewski was based in London and he had been working in Ukraine since February. He had dual French and Irish citizenship. "He was a warm-hearted traveler who provoked beautiful encounters, he was very humble and human and had not lost any of his sensitivity over the years," a member of his family told news agency AFP. The family member further said that last week Zakrzewski "had helped to shelter a newborn baby found after a bombing, named Prince Charlie". "His passion and talent as a journalist were unmatched." He is survived by his wife Michelle, a documentary filmmaker and producer, his family member said. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said he was "deeply disturbed and saddened" by the deaths of Zakrzewski and his colleague. "My thoughts are with their families, friends and fellow journalists," Martin said on Twitter. "We condemn this indiscriminate and immoral war by Russia on Ukraine." At least four journalists have died in nearly three weeks of fighting. American filmmaker and journalist Brent Renaud was shot dead by Russian forces in the town of Irpin in Ukraine's Kyiv region, a regional police chief said on Sunday. WATCH | Russia sanctions top American leaders, Joe Biden and several top US officials on the list ×

Fox News veteran war-zone photographer, Ukrainian journalist killed in Ukraine

Russia's ground troops are facing unexpected resistance in the capital city of Kyiv so Russia has chosen to step up its offensive. There has been a substantial increase in air raids as we've been reporting and the latest one has now hit a residential area.

Ukraine War: Brother of Kyiv Mayor joins frontline fighters

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. 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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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

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

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