As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the Kremlin said on Monday (March 14) that it may still opt to take control of large cities in Ukraine.&nbsp;

News agencies have reported that the Russian military is advancing steadily towards several major urban hubs in its pro-Western neighbour.&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "Putin gave orders to hold back on any immediate assault on large cities because the civilian losses would be large."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-85-children-killed-100-wounded-so-far-in-ukraine-says-attorney-general-462201">At least 85 children killed, 100 wounded so far in Ukraine, says attorney general</a>

Peskov added that the defence ministry, however, "does not rule out the possibility of putting large cities, which are already almost fully encircled, under its full control".&nbsp;

Peskov said that exceptions would be made for areas "used for humanitarian evacuations. "US and EU leaders it seems are forcing Russia towards an assault of large Ukrainian cities to hold our country responsible for civilian deaths," he added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Peskov further denied reports that Russia has asked China for military aid. He said that Russia has the potential to conduct an operation in Ukraine, and has not asked for assistance from other countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-orthodox-church-announces-split-with-moscow-over-ukraine-invasion-462186">Russian Orthodox church announces split with Moscow over Ukraine invasion</a>

Financial Times newspaper cited US officials on Monday and claimed that Russia had asked China for military ​equipment to ​support its operation in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Peskov told reporters, "Newspapers are now writing a lot, you should not take it as a primary source. Russia has an independent potential to continue the operation, as we said, it is developing according to the plan and will be completed on time and in full."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Two killed in Kyiv suburbs after being hit by artillery shelling

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(With inputs from agnencies)

As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the Kremlin said on Monday (March 14) that it may still opt to take control of large cities in Ukraine. News agencies have reported that the Russian military is advancing steadily towards several major urban hubs in its pro-Western neighbour.

As Russia and Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the Kremlin said on Monday (March 14) that it may still opt to take control of large cities in Ukraine. News agencies have reported that the Russian military is advancing steadily towards several major urban hubs in its pro-Western neighbour. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "Putin gave orders to hold back on any immediate assault on large cities because the civilian losses would be large." ALSO READ | At least 85 children killed, 100 wounded so far in Ukraine, says attorney general Peskov added that the defence ministry, however, "does not rule out the possibility of putting large cities, which are already almost fully encircled, under its full control". Peskov said that exceptions would be made for areas "used for humanitarian evacuations. "US and EU leaders it seems are forcing Russia towards an assault of large Ukrainian cities to hold our country responsible for civilian deaths," he added. Meanwhile, Peskov further denied reports that Russia has asked China for military aid. He said that Russia has the potential to conduct an operation in Ukraine, and has not asked for assistance from other countries. ALSO READ | Russian Orthodox church announces split with Moscow over Ukraine invasion Financial Times newspaper cited US officials on Monday and claimed that Russia had asked China for military equipment to support its operation in Ukraine. Peskov told reporters, "Newspapers are now writing a lot, you should not take it as a primary source. Russia has an independent potential to continue the operation, as we said, it is developing according to the plan and will be completed on time and in full." WATCH | Two killed in Kyiv suburbs after being hit by artillery shelling × (With inputs from agnencies)

Ukraine under attack: Kremlin doesn't rule out taking 'full control' of major Ukraine cities

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on Monday said that a pregnant woman who was pictured being carried from a Ukrainian maternity hospital after it was bombed by Russian forces has died along with her unborn baby. The heart-wrenching image by The Associated Press shows the woman stroking her lower abdomen which is full of blood.

Last week, Russia bombed a children's hospital in the port city of Mariupol. As per Ukraine, the bombing in the besieged city took place during a supposed ceasefire that was meant to facilitate the escape of hundreds of civilians in the city.

President Volodymr Zelenskiy called it an "atrocity".

The woman in the picture was immediately rushed to another hospital. When she realised that her baby had died, the medics said, she cried out, "Kill me now!"

She has not been named.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-not-for-free-says-zelensky-on-western-arms-sale-to-ukraine-462030">Also read |&nbsp;It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine</a>

The Associated Press spoke to surgeon Timur Marin, who found the woman's pelvis crushed and hip detached. Medics delivered the baby through cesarean section. However, it showed "no signs of life," the surgeon said.

"More than 30 minutes of resuscitation of the mother didn't produce results. Both died," Marin added.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry posted video footage of what appeared to be the badly damaged building of what it said was the children's and maternity hospital.

The footage showed holes where windows should have been in a three-storey building at the hospital, and huge piles of rubble, some of it smouldering.&nbsp;

(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. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on Monday said that a pregnant woman who was pictured being carried from a Ukrainian maternity hospital after it was bombed by Russian forces has died along with her unborn baby. The heart-wrenching image by The Associated Press shows the woman stroking her lower abdomen which is full of blood. Last week, Russia bombed a children's hospital in the port city of Mariupol. As per Ukraine, the bombing in the besieged city took place during a supposed ceasefire that was meant to facilitate the escape of hundreds of civilians in the city. President Volodymr Zelenskiy called it an "atrocity". The woman in the picture was immediately rushed to another hospital. When she realised that her baby had died, the medics said, she cried out, "Kill me now!" She has not been named. Also read | It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine The Associated Press spoke to surgeon Timur Marin, who found the woman's pelvis crushed and hip detached. Medics delivered the baby through cesarean section. However, it showed "no signs of life," the surgeon said. "More than 30 minutes of resuscitation of the mother didn't produce results. Both died," Marin added. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry posted video footage of what appeared to be the badly damaged building of what it said was the children's and maternity hospital. The footage showed holes where windows should have been in a three-storey building at the hospital, and huge piles of rubble, some of it smouldering. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine: Pregnant woman in viral image dies after maternity hospital attack

Ukraine’s attorney general's office in an official statement said that at least 85 children lost their lives so far. "As a result of the armed aggression of the Russian federation, as of the morning of March 13, 85 children have been killed and almost 100 wounded in Ukraine. Most victims were in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Donetsk, Sumy, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Zhytomyr regions," read the statement.&nbsp;

It further said that on March 11, a civilian car was shot dead while the occupiers were trying to evacuate. "As a result of the shelling, a young child died," read the statement.&nbsp;

As the situation intensifies, a total of 369 educational institutions have been damaged and 57 have been destroyed so far.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on Monday, Russian forces targeted a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. Reports said at least 35 people were killed in the attack and 130 injured.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-not-for-free-says-zelensky-on-western-arms-sale-to-ukraine-462030">Also read |&nbsp;It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine</a>

According to the Russian defence ministry, it had targeted weapons depots which were reportedly supplied by foreign nations. The Russian ministry claimed it had killed "180 foreign mercenaries".

The attack took place at the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security which is just 25 km from the Polish border. US Secretary of state Anthony Blinken condemned the attack saying the "brutality must stop".

After the attack, President Zelensky warned NATO nations saying that it was "only a matter of time before Russian rockets" would fall on NATO territory while repeating his call for a no-fly zone over Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine’s attorney general's office in an official statement said that at least 85 children lost their lives so far. "As a result of the armed aggression of the Russian federation, as of the morning of March 13, 85 children have been killed and almost 100 wounded in Ukraine.

Ukraine’s attorney general's office in an official statement said that at least 85 children lost their lives so far. "As a result of the armed aggression of the Russian federation, as of the morning of March 13, 85 children have been killed and almost 100 wounded in Ukraine. Most victims were in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Donetsk, Sumy, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Zhytomyr regions," read the statement. It further said that on March 11, a civilian car was shot dead while the occupiers were trying to evacuate. "As a result of the shelling, a young child died," read the statement. As the situation intensifies, a total of 369 educational institutions have been damaged and 57 have been destroyed so far. Meanwhile, on Monday, Russian forces targeted a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. Reports said at least 35 people were killed in the attack and 130 injured. Also read | It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine According to the Russian defence ministry, it had targeted weapons depots which were reportedly supplied by foreign nations. The Russian ministry claimed it had killed "180 foreign mercenaries". The attack took place at the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security which is just 25 km from the Polish border. US Secretary of state Anthony Blinken condemned the attack saying the "brutality must stop". After the attack, President Zelensky warned NATO nations saying that it was "only a matter of time before Russian rockets" would fall on NATO territory while repeating his call for a no-fly zone over Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 85 children killed, 100 wounded so far in Ukraine, says attorney general

As the Russia Ukraine war enters day 19, there is no end to the relentless shelling by the Russian forces and as the Russian troops continue to end closer towards the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. At least two people have been killed in a Russian strike on a residential building in the capital.

Two killed in Kyiv suburbs after being hit by artillery shelling

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine continue even as Russia's attacks on Ukrainian cities carry on without a pause. Ukrainian and Russian negotiators will today resume talks to bring about some form of resolution to the conflict.

Diplomatic efforts to end war continue ; Both sides cite progress in resolution

Now the Russian assault on Ukraine's capital of Kyiv has intensified. As per reports at least 2 people have been killed in a Russian strike on a residential building in Kyiv.

Residential building shelled in Kyiv; at least 2 people have been killed

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the West has imposed severe economic sanctions against Russia. However, Foreign companies in Russia are also being threatened via calls, Emails & visits.

Big brands under Kremlin's scrutiny: Foreign companies threatened via calls, Emails & visits

It is day 19 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine.

Day 19 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Capital Kyiv braces for Russian assault

A US journalist was shot dead and another was wounded in Ukraine's Irpin, reported AFP news agency quoting medics and witnesses.

Danylo Shapovalov, a surgeon volunteering for the Ukrainian territorial defence, said one of the Americans died instantly and he had treated the other.

AFP said its reporters in Irpin saw the body of the victim.

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&nbsp;

A third victim, a Ukrainian who had been in the same car as the Americans, was also wounded.

Ukrainian officials were quick to blame Russian forces for the shooting but the exact circumstances were unclear. AFP reporters heard small arms and artillery fire in the area.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-can-plan-chemical-weapons-operations-behind-lies-about-biological-weapons-laboratories-nato-461865">Russia can plan chemical weapons operations behind lies about biological weapons laboratories: NATO</a>

"The car was shot at. There were two journalists and one of ours (a Ukrainian)," Shapovalov told AFP.

"Our guy and the journalist are wounded, I provided them first aid, the other one received a wound in the neck, he died immediately."

Papers found on the American reporter's body identified him as 50-year-old video documentary shooter Brent Renaud, of New York.

A New York Times identity card was among the papers, leading to reports he worked for the paper, but the US daily said he was not working for it at the time of his death.

"Brent was a talented photographer and filmmaker who had contributed to The New York Times over the years," said a statement tweeted by deputy managing editor Cliff Levy.

"Though he had contributed to The Times in the past (most recently in 2015), he was not on assignment for any desk at The Times in Ukraine."

(With inputs from agencies)

A US journalist was shot dead and another was wounded in Ukraine's Irpin, reported AFP news agency quoting medics and witnesses. Danylo Shapovalov, a surgeon volunteering for the Ukrainian territorial defence, said one of the Americans died instantly and he had treated the other.

A US journalist was shot dead and another was wounded in Ukraine's Irpin, reported AFP news agency quoting medics and witnesses. Danylo Shapovalov, a surgeon volunteering for the Ukrainian territorial defence, said one of the Americans died instantly and he had treated the other. AFP said its reporters in Irpin saw the body of the victim. × A third victim, a Ukrainian who had been in the same car as the Americans, was also wounded. Ukrainian officials were quick to blame Russian forces for the shooting but the exact circumstances were unclear. AFP reporters heard small arms and artillery fire in the area. Also Read | Russia can plan chemical weapons operations behind lies about biological weapons laboratories: NATO "The car was shot at. There were two journalists and one of ours (a Ukrainian)," Shapovalov told AFP. "Our guy and the journalist are wounded, I provided them first aid, the other one received a wound in the neck, he died immediately." Papers found on the American reporter's body identified him as 50-year-old video documentary shooter Brent Renaud, of New York. A New York Times identity card was among the papers, leading to reports he worked for the paper, but the US daily said he was not working for it at the time of his death. "Brent was a talented photographer and filmmaker who had contributed to The New York Times over the years," said a statement tweeted by deputy managing editor Cliff Levy. "Though he had contributed to The Times in the past (most recently in 2015), he was not on assignment for any desk at The Times in Ukraine." (With inputs from agencies)

US journalist shot dead in Ukraine, another wounded: Report

In pics | With Ukraine under attack, Taiwan military gears up

Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. Take a look at how the situation is developing in Donetsk. Russian state media has released footage of what it claims the village of Novotroitske shows military convoy with letter 'Z' ON IT.

Russia releases village of Novotroitske, 'Z' painted on military convoy vehicles

Ukraine expects a new wave of attacks on the Kyiv, Kharkiv and Donbass regions after a slowdown in Russia's offensive.

Ukraine: Expecting new attacks on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Donbass

With each passing day Russia seems to be turning its cruise on the Ukrainian capital. Russia has said to have surrounded Kyiv from three sides in a pincer attack our correspondent Anas Mallick is in Lyiv and brings in all exclusive information.

Russian troops inches closer towards Kyiv, intense fighting on outskirts of capital

Russia has rammed up its offensive against Ukraine with the heads of Ukrainian government officials reportedly being targeted. Ukrainian President Vlodymyr Zelensky has alleged that Russia has kidnapped the mayor of city Melitopol, Ivan Fedorov.

Mayor of Ukraine's Melitopol city kidnapped by Russia, alleges President Zelenskyy

It is day 18 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine.

Military base in Lviv attacked: 35 people killed and 134 injured

Day 18 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Russian forces inch closer to heart Kyiv

As the world pushed for new economic sanctions against Russia and President Putin amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Russia's economy faces hardships. Russia scrambles to deal with sanctions.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Impact of sanctions on ordinary Russians

An estimated 2.3 million Ukrainians have fled from their country so far. If the Russian invasion were to continue in the days to come then the United Nations expects that anywhere from 6 to 7 million Ukrainians will be seeking refuge in other European Nations.

Russia Ukraine invasion: UN estimates 7 million will need refuge

During a flight, a Russian pilot denounced his country's attack on Ukraine.The pilot demanded that the war between Russia and Ukraine be ended immediately.&nbsp;

A video of the pilot’s message was tweeted by journalist Pjotr Sauer.&nbsp;

"The war in Ukraine is a crime," the pilot was quoted as saying by Sauer. "I think sensible citizens will agree with me and will do everything to make it stop."

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A Russian pilot tells passengers that he believes “the war in Ukraine is a crime,” adding “I think each sensible citizens will agree with me and will do everything to make it stop.” Rare to see public opposition to the war given the consequences such a statement will have <a href="https://t.co/55h18mWI9U">pic.twitter.com/55h18mWI9U</a>
— Pjotr Sauer (@PjotrSauer) <a href="https://twitter.com/PjotrSauer/status/1502335189669892098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Given the potential repercussions, such public opposition to Russia's war was unusual.

According to Ukrainian diplomat Olexander Scherba, the pilot works for Pobeda, a subsidiary of Russia's flag airline, Aeroflot.

When he arrived in Antalya, Turkey, he delivered his message to travellers.

There was a little applause here and there.

The Ukrainian people are in the midst of a major crisis as Russian forces continue to attack their cities.

Thousands of individuals are said to have died in the conflict, which has prompted over 2 million people to flee Ukraine.

Protests, boycotts, and economic sanctions have been used around the world in response to Russian aggression.&nbsp;

The 17th day of what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky refers to as a "war of extermination" witnessed mounting casualties, Russian soldiers approaching Kiev within 15 miles, and the vital port city of Mariupol continuing to be battered.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

During a flight, a Russian pilot denounced his country's attack on Ukraine.The pilot demanded that the war between Russia and Ukraine be ended immediately. A video of the pilot’s message was tweeted by journalist Pjotr Sauer.

During a flight, a Russian pilot denounced his country's attack on Ukraine.The pilot demanded that the war between Russia and Ukraine be ended immediately. A video of the pilot’s message was tweeted by journalist Pjotr Sauer. "The war in Ukraine is a crime," the pilot was quoted as saying by Sauer. "I think sensible citizens will agree with me and will do everything to make it stop." A Russian pilot tells passengers that he believes “the war in Ukraine is a crime,” adding “I think each sensible citizens will agree with me and will do everything to make it stop.” Rare to see public opposition to the war given the consequences such a statement will have pic.twitter.com/55h18mWI9U — Pjotr Sauer (@PjotrSauer) March 11, 2022 × Given the potential repercussions, such public opposition to Russia's war was unusual. According to Ukrainian diplomat Olexander Scherba, the pilot works for Pobeda, a subsidiary of Russia's flag airline, Aeroflot. When he arrived in Antalya, Turkey, he delivered his message to travellers. There was a little applause here and there. The Ukrainian people are in the midst of a major crisis as Russian forces continue to attack their cities. Thousands of individuals are said to have died in the conflict, which has prompted over 2 million people to flee Ukraine. Protests, boycotts, and economic sanctions have been used around the world in response to Russian aggression. The 17th day of what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky refers to as a "war of extermination" witnessed mounting casualties, Russian soldiers approaching Kiev within 15 miles, and the vital port city of Mariupol continuing to be battered. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | War in Ukraine ‘is a crime’: Russian pilot tells passengers 

Russian troops continue to advance towards Kyiv on day 18 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Military base in Lviv attacked

In Russian invasion of Ukraine, fighting is raging on the outskirts of Kyiv. Artillery barrages forced residents to look for shelter in multiple areas around the capital city. &nbsp;

On Saturday, Zelenskyy said that Russia would need to carpet-bomb Kyiv and kill its residents to take the city. “They will come here only if they kill us all. If that is their goal, let them come,” he said.&nbsp;

The bombardment is still ongoing in other cities throughout the country like port city of Mariupol. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The invading forces are pounding the downtown of Mariupol with heavy shelling. Residents are hiding in an iconic mosque and elsewhere. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-weapons-worth-200-million-to-help-ukraine-fight-off-russia-461767" hreflang="en">US to send weapons worth $200 million to help Ukraine fight off Russia</a>

Mariupol is witnessing several issues in bringing food, water and medicine and evacuation of trapped civilians. During the siege, more than 1,500 people have died in Mariupol, as per the mayor's office. The continuous shelling has been even interrupting efforts to bury the dead in mass graves. &nbsp;

During a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said, “They are bombing it (Mariupol) 24 hours a day, launching missiles. It is hatred. They kill children." &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Saturday, the talks aimed at reaching a ceasefire have failed again. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211">LIVE: Ukraine says Russians shot 7 evacuees, including 1 child, near Kyiv</a>

Zelenskyy has also accused Russia of employing 'a new stage of terror' with the alleged detention of a mayor of a different city. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In Irpin, bodies lay out in the open on streets and in a park on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We do not have the right to let up our defense, no matter how difficult it may be," Zelenskyy said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In Russian invasion of Ukraine, fighting is raging on the outskirts of Kyiv. Artillery barrages forced residents to look for shelter in multiple areas around the capital city.

In Russian invasion of Ukraine, fighting is raging on the outskirts of Kyiv. Artillery barrages forced residents to look for shelter in multiple areas around the capital city. On Saturday, Zelenskyy said that Russia would need to carpet-bomb Kyiv and kill its residents to take the city. “They will come here only if they kill us all. If that is their goal, let them come,” he said. The bombardment is still ongoing in other cities throughout the country like port city of Mariupol. The invading forces are pounding the downtown of Mariupol with heavy shelling. Residents are hiding in an iconic mosque and elsewhere. Also Read: US to send weapons worth $200 million to help Ukraine fight off Russia Mariupol is witnessing several issues in bringing food, water and medicine and evacuation of trapped civilians. During the siege, more than 1,500 people have died in Mariupol, as per the mayor's office. The continuous shelling has been even interrupting efforts to bury the dead in mass graves. During a video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said, “They are bombing it (Mariupol) 24 hours a day, launching missiles. It is hatred. They kill children." On Saturday, the talks aimed at reaching a ceasefire have failed again. Also Read | LIVE: Ukraine says Russians shot 7 evacuees, including 1 child, near Kyiv Zelenskyy has also accused Russia of employing 'a new stage of terror' with the alleged detention of a mayor of a different city. In Irpin, bodies lay out in the open on streets and in a park on Saturday. "We do not have the right to let up our defense, no matter how difficult it may be," Zelenskyy said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Fighting rages on near Kyiv as Mariupol gets pounded heavily

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is now in its 18th day. Russian forces are advancing to Ukraine's capital from the North West and North East.

Russian forces advance towards Kyiv from 3 different directions

It is day 18 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Russian forces are advancing from North, West & Northeast.

Russian artillery targets ammunition depot in Vasylkiv as Russian invasion of Ukraine enters day 18

In order to help Ukraine defend against invading Russian forces, the United States on Saturday said it would send additional small arms, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons worth $200 million to the eastern European nation. &nbsp;

Ukrainian officials have been asking for more equipment to defend against heavy shelling by Russian forces. &nbsp;

On Saturday, US President Joe Biden authorised the additional security assistance, the White House said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-conflict-intensifies-ukrainian-defenders-claim-to-kill-russias-third-general-461614" hreflang="en">As conflict intensifies, Ukrainian defenders claim to kill Russia’s third general</a>

The move will initiate the "immediate" shipment of fresh military equipment to Ukraine, a senior administration official said. &nbsp;

With the announcement, the total US security aid provided to Ukraine has reached $1.2 billion since January 2021 and $3.2 billion since 2014, when Russia had annexed Crimea region of Ukraine, as per senior administration officials. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a memorandum to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Biden has directed that up to $200 million allocated through the Foreign Assistance Act be designated for Ukraine's defence. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-faces-flak-for-laughing-on-question-over-ukrainian-refugees-fate-461512" hreflang="en">US Vice-President Kamala Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate</a>

Blinken said he authorised a fourth drawdown of US defense stocks, in line with Biden's directive, "to help Ukraine meet the armored, airborne, and other threats it is facing" as the war entered a third week. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement, Blinken said, "The United States and our allies and partners stand in solidarity with the people and government of Ukraine in the face of the Kremlin’s aggression. The international community is united and determined to hold (Russian President Vladimir) Putin accountable." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In order to help Ukraine defend against invading Russian forces, the United States on Saturday said it would send additional small arms, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons worth $200 million to the eastern European nation.

In order to help Ukraine defend against invading Russian forces, the United States on Saturday said it would send additional small arms, anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons worth $200 million to the eastern European nation. Ukrainian officials have been asking for more equipment to defend against heavy shelling by Russian forces. On Saturday, US President Joe Biden authorised the additional security assistance, the White House said. Also Read: As conflict intensifies, Ukrainian defenders claim to kill Russia’s third general The move will initiate the "immediate" shipment of fresh military equipment to Ukraine, a senior administration official said. With the announcement, the total US security aid provided to Ukraine has reached $1.2 billion since January 2021 and $3.2 billion since 2014, when Russia had annexed Crimea region of Ukraine, as per senior administration officials. In a memorandum to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Biden has directed that up to $200 million allocated through the Foreign Assistance Act be designated for Ukraine's defence. Also Read: US Vice-President Kamala Harris faces flak for laughing on question over Ukrainian refugees’ fate Blinken said he authorised a fourth drawdown of US defense stocks, in line with Biden's directive, "to help Ukraine meet the armored, airborne, and other threats it is facing" as the war entered a third week. In a statement, Blinken said, "The United States and our allies and partners stand in solidarity with the people and government of Ukraine in the face of the Kremlin’s aggression. The international community is united and determined to hold (Russian President Vladimir) Putin accountable." (With inputs from agencies)

US to send weapons worth $200 million to help Ukraine fight off Russia

In the last two weeks, Europe has welcomed Ukrainian refugees with open arms. But this is in stark contrast to its treatment of Syrian refugees in 2015. On The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis decodes the racist nature of Europe's response to this refugee crisis.

The West Asia Post | Europe welcomes Ukrainians, shuns others

It is day 18 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Meanwhile, WION visited the community centre in Irpin to bring a report from the ground.

WION visits the community centre in Irpin amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Day 18 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Russian forces advance from North, West & Northeast

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Residents from Irpin flee the area amid fierce fighting

Zelensky sends defiant message to Russia as Russian troops close in on Kyiv

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