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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate. From the day Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a "military operation" in Ukrainian cities till today - the face of the conflict has changed entirely with reports of deaths, massive loss of property and refugee crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest reports have mentioned that Kyiv will soon be encircled, with Russian tanks in places just a few kilometres from the city limits to the east.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian troops, on the outskirts of Kyiv, are maybe waiting for directions from the top officials to proceed further. However, if reports are to be believed, they are currently stranded and are in dire conditions.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Daily Mail reported that Russian troops could freeze to death in tanks and armoured military vehicles this week as temperatures are set to plunge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, a pronounced cold snap in eastern Europe means the temperatures could drop to -10C overnight in the middle of the week around Kyiv and Kharkiv. It can go down to even -20C in case of the wind chill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies have reported that over the last five days, the Russians have advanced more than 80 kilometres on the north-eastern front and closing in on&nbsp;the Ukrainian capital.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-war-crimes-what-are-the-rules-of-war-460670">What are war crimes? What are the rules of war?</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, a solid Ukrainian resistance has been quite impactful so far, but apart from the resistance, it has been understood that the Russian troops faced mechanical problems and fuel supply issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now the icy conditions are expected to make the situation even worse for the Russian soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The media outlet quoted former British Army Major Kevin Price, who said the tanks will become nothing more than "40-tonne freezers" as the temperature is dropping, weighing in on whether Russian soldiers are capable of Arctic-style warfare. Price said such low temperatures in March is set to become "unbelievably tough".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also quoted Glen Grant, who is a senior defence expert at the Baltic Security Foundation. Grant said that a tank "is just a fridge at night if you are not running the engine". In the current state, the Russian convoy outside Kyiv cannot afford run engines unnecessarily because there's fuel scarcity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Grant told Newsweek, "You just can't sit around and wait because if you are in the vehicle you are waiting to be killed. They are not stupid."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US deploys missile system in Poland to secure against potential threats in the area</strong></p>

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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-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate. From the day Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a "military operation" in Ukrainian cities till today - the face of the conflict has changed entirely with reports of deaths, massive loss of property and refugee crisis. The latest reports have mentioned that Kyiv will soon be encircled, with Russian tanks in places just a few kilometres from the city limits to the east. The Russian troops, on the outskirts of Kyiv, are maybe waiting for directions from the top officials to proceed further. However, if reports are to be believed, they are currently stranded and are in dire conditions. IN PICS | Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction Daily Mail reported that Russian troops could freeze to death in tanks and armoured military vehicles this week as temperatures are set to plunge. As per the report, a pronounced cold snap in eastern Europe means the temperatures could drop to -10C overnight in the middle of the week around Kyiv and Kharkiv. It can go down to even -20C in case of the wind chill. News agencies have reported that over the last five days, the Russians have advanced more than 80 kilometres on the north-eastern front and closing in on the Ukrainian capital. IN PICS | What are war crimes? What are the rules of war? Meanwhile, a solid Ukrainian resistance has been quite impactful so far, but apart from the resistance, it has been understood that the Russian troops faced mechanical problems and fuel supply issues. Now the icy conditions are expected to make the situation even worse for the Russian soldiers. The media outlet quoted former British Army Major Kevin Price, who said the tanks will become nothing more than "40-tonne freezers" as the temperature is dropping, weighing in on whether Russian soldiers are capable of Arctic-style warfare. Price said such low temperatures in March is set to become "unbelievably tough". The report also quoted Glen Grant, who is a senior defence expert at the Baltic Security Foundation. Grant said that a tank "is just a fridge at night if you are not running the engine". In the current state, the Russian convoy outside Kyiv cannot afford run engines unnecessarily because there's fuel scarcity. Grant told Newsweek, "You just can't sit around and wait because if you are in the vehicle you are waiting to be killed. They are not stupid." WATCH | US deploys missile system in Poland to secure against potential threats in the area ×

Russian tanks or '40-tonne iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army

In a recent move to penalize Russia over its attack on Ukraine, Facebook and other US tech giants have blocked access to its network in Moscow. In light of Ukraine's invasion, Facebook said it has temporarily eased its rules about violent speech to allow statements like "death to Russian invaders" on its platform. However, Facebook will not allow content that poses credible threats to civilians.

Facebook Tweaks Rules To Allow Hate Speech Against 'Russian Invaders' Amid War On Ukraine

Amid Ukraine and Russia conflict, Russian forces started crawling closer to Kyiv and fears have been mounted that Kyiv will be encircled soon.

Russian forces crawl closer to Kyiv, Is this renewed effort to capture the capital?

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="17">The World Health Organization advised Ukraine to destroy high-threat pathogens housed in the country's public health laboratories to prevent "any potential spills" that would spread disease among the population, the agency told Reuters on Thursday.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="19">Biosecurity experts say Russia's movement of troops into Ukraine and bombardment of its cities has raised the risk of an escape of disease-causing pathogens, should any of those facilities be damaged.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="20">Like many other countries, Ukraine has public health laboratories researching how to mitigate the threats of dangerous diseases affecting both animals and humans including, most recently, COVID-19. Its labs have received support from the United States, the European Union and the WHO.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="21">In response to questions from Reuters about its work with Ukraine ahead of and during Russia's invasion, the WHO said in an email that it has collaborated with Ukrainian public health labs for several years to promote security practices that help prevent "accidental or deliberate release of pathogens."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="22">"As part of this work, WHO has strongly recommended to the Ministry of Health in Ukraine and other responsible bodies to destroy high-threat pathogens to prevent any potential spills," the WHO, a United Nations agency, said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="23">The WHO would not say when it had made the recommendation nor did it provide specifics about the kinds of pathogens or toxins housed in Ukraine's laboratories. The agency also did not answer questions about whether its recommendations were followed.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="24">Ukrainian officials in Kyiv and at their embassy in Washington did not respond to requests for comment.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="25">Ukraine's laboratory capabilities are at the centre of a growing information war since Russia began moving troops into Ukraine two weeks ago.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="26">On Wednesday, Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova repeated a longstanding claim that the United States operates a biowarfare lab in Ukraine, an accusation that has been repeatedly denied by Washington and Kyiv.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="27">Zakharova said that documents unearthed by Russian forces in Ukraine showed "an emergency attempt to erase evidence of military biological programmes" by destroying lab samples.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="28">In response, a Ukrainian presidential spokesperson said: "Ukraine strictly denies any such allegation." U.S. government spokespeople also strongly denied Zakharova's accusations, saying that Russia may use its claims as a pretext to deploy its own chemical or biological weapons.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="29">The WHO statement made no reference to biowarfare. The agency said it encourages all parties to cooperate in "the safe and secure disposal of any pathogens they come across, and to reach out for technical assistance as needed." It offered to help wherever possible with technical guidance and coordination.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="30">The United Nations Security Council will convene on Friday at Russia's request, diplomats said, to discuss Moscow's claims, presented without evidence, of U.S. biological activities in Ukraine.</p>


The World Health Organization advised Ukraine to destroy high-threat pathogens housed in the country's public health laboratories to prevent "any potential spills" that would spread disease among the population, the agency told Reuters on Thursday.

The World Health Organization advised Ukraine to destroy high-threat pathogens housed in the country's public health laboratories to prevent "any potential spills" that would spread disease among the population, the agency told Reuters on Thursday. Biosecurity experts say Russia's movement of troops into Ukraine and bombardment of its cities has raised the risk of an escape of disease-causing pathogens, should any of those facilities be damaged. Like many other countries, Ukraine has public health laboratories researching how to mitigate the threats of dangerous diseases affecting both animals and humans including, most recently, COVID-19. Its labs have received support from the United States, the European Union and the WHO. In response to questions from Reuters about its work with Ukraine ahead of and during Russia's invasion, the WHO said in an email that it has collaborated with Ukrainian public health labs for several years to promote security practices that help prevent "accidental or deliberate release of pathogens." "As part of this work, WHO has strongly recommended to the Ministry of Health in Ukraine and other responsible bodies to destroy high-threat pathogens to prevent any potential spills," the WHO, a United Nations agency, said. The WHO would not say when it had made the recommendation nor did it provide specifics about the kinds of pathogens or toxins housed in Ukraine's laboratories. The agency also did not answer questions about whether its recommendations were followed. Ukrainian officials in Kyiv and at their embassy in Washington did not respond to requests for comment. Ukraine's laboratory capabilities are at the centre of a growing information war since Russia began moving troops into Ukraine two weeks ago. On Wednesday, Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova repeated a longstanding claim that the United States operates a biowarfare lab in Ukraine, an accusation that has been repeatedly denied by Washington and Kyiv. Zakharova said that documents unearthed by Russian forces in Ukraine showed "an emergency attempt to erase evidence of military biological programmes" by destroying lab samples. In response, a Ukrainian presidential spokesperson said: "Ukraine strictly denies any such allegation." U.S. government spokespeople also strongly denied Zakharova's accusations, saying that Russia may use its claims as a pretext to deploy its own chemical or biological weapons. The WHO statement made no reference to biowarfare. The agency said it encourages all parties to cooperate in "the safe and secure disposal of any pathogens they come across, and to reach out for technical assistance as needed." It offered to help wherever possible with technical guidance and coordination. The United Nations Security Council will convene on Friday at Russia's request, diplomats said, to discuss Moscow's claims, presented without evidence, of U.S. biological activities in Ukraine.

Exclusive: WHO says it advised Ukraine to destroy pathogens in health labs to prevent disease spread

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p>The claims and counter claims over several developments in Ukraine seem to be rife in the world nowadays. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the United States denied the Russian accusations about Washington operating biowarfare labs in Ukraine. It called the claims "laughable". &nbsp;</p>

<p>It further suggested that Moscow, instead, may be laying the groundwork to use a biological or chemical weapon. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ukraines-besieged-cities-35000-escaped-via-humanitarian-corridors-zelensky-460729">35,000 escape from Ukraine's besieged cities: Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia has been repeatedly accusing the United States of working with Ukrainian laboratories to develop biological weapons for several years. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>This assertion was again made on Wednesday by foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday, "The Russian accusations are absurd, they are laughable and you know, in the words of my Irish Catholic grandfather, a bunch of malarkey. There's nothing to it. It's classic Russian propaganda." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gleaning-lessons-from-putins-attack-on-ukraine-australia-decides-to-increase-its-troops-to-80000-460749">After Putin's attack on Ukraine, Australia to increase its troops to 80,000</a></strong></p>

<p>In a statement released on Wednesday, State Department spokesman Ned Price said Russia "is inventing false pretexts in an attempt to justify its own horrific actions in Ukraine." &nbsp;</p>

<p>On Twitter, White House press secretary Jen Psaki, citing what she called Russia's "false claims", said, "It’s Russia that has a long and well-documented track record of using chemical weapons, including in attempted assassinations and poisoning of Putin’s political enemies like Alexey Navalny." &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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 claims and counter claims over several developments in Ukraine seem to be rife in the world nowadays. On Wednesday, the United States denied the Russian accusations about Washington operating biowarfare labs in Ukraine. It called the claims "laughable". It further suggested that Moscow, instead, may be laying the groundwork to use a biological or chemical weapon. Also Read | 35,000 escape from Ukraine's besieged cities: Zelensky Russia has been repeatedly accusing the United States of working with Ukrainian laboratories to develop biological weapons for several years. This assertion was again made on Wednesday by foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday, "The Russian accusations are absurd, they are laughable and you know, in the words of my Irish Catholic grandfather, a bunch of malarkey. There's nothing to it. It's classic Russian propaganda." Also Read: After Putin's attack on Ukraine, Australia to increase its troops to 80,000 In a statement released on Wednesday, State Department spokesman Ned Price said Russia "is inventing false pretexts in an attempt to justify its own horrific actions in Ukraine." On Twitter, White House press secretary Jen Psaki, citing what she called Russia's "false claims", said, "It’s Russia that has a long and well-documented track record of using chemical weapons, including in attempted assassinations and poisoning of Putin’s political enemies like Alexey Navalny." (With inputs from agencies)

'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine

<p>"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound."</p>

<p>These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy.</p>

<p>Indian authorities on Tuesday were able to evacuate over 500 Indian students from the besieged city of Sumy in Ukraine which was the most challenging of all evacuations under Operation Ganga. Under operation Ganga, India has been able to bring back over 18000 of its citizens from the war-torn country in special flights.</p>

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<p>Speaking to Indian students at Lviv railway station, the Indian envoy said, "what I wanted to share with you, it has been difficult for all of you, 7-8 days in the bunker, but it has been equally difficult for all of us, who have been trying to get you out."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian students will now travel to Poland from where they will be brought back to India. Sharing a personal anecdote, envoy Satpathy said, "The only message I have, when I would feel really difficult, how to get my boys out, my daughter will call me and say, Papa, think that I am there with them. This believe me is the attitude all of us have worked in the embassy, we all believed our children are out there"</p>

<p>The Indian students in Sumy have been in dire conditions for days as the shelling of the city continued. Earlier this week, the Russians and the Ukrainians agreed on a humanitarian corridor that led to evacuation of Indian students. The Indian envoy had earlier met Governor of Lviv Maksym Kozytskyi and the Mayor of Lviv City Andriy Sadovyi.</p>

<p>During his address at the railway station, envoy lauded the role played by Ukrainian authorities and said, "I have just one request for all of you, this has been a very difficult time for people of Ukraine too. They have helped you, railways has helped you, the border point will help you. Please be patient, and appreciate what they have done".&nbsp;</p>

<p>India was in touch with both Kyiv and Moscow for safe evacuation of Indian nationals. The envoy also had a message for parents, in which he said, "We promised to bring every Indian back, this was the PM's direct objective. Get every Indian back. This is what we have done, and I am so happy you will be all with your parents."</p>


"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound." These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy.

"Students, this is perhaps one of the happiest moments of in my life. Because I finally see all of you safe and sound." These emotional words from Indian Envoy to Ukraine Partha Satpathy while addressing Indian students well encapsulated the trials and tribulations of evacuation from Sumy. Indian authorities on Tuesday were able to evacuate over 500 Indian students from the besieged city of Sumy in Ukraine which was the most challenging of all evacuations under Operation Ganga. Under operation Ganga, India has been able to bring back over 18000 of its citizens from the war-torn country in special flights. × Speaking to Indian students at Lviv railway station, the Indian envoy said, "what I wanted to share with you, it has been difficult for all of you, 7-8 days in the bunker, but it has been equally difficult for all of us, who have been trying to get you out." The Indian students will now travel to Poland from where they will be brought back to India. Sharing a personal anecdote, envoy Satpathy said, "The only message I have, when I would feel really difficult, how to get my boys out, my daughter will call me and say, Papa, think that I am there with them. This believe me is the attitude all of us have worked in the embassy, we all believed our children are out there" The Indian students in Sumy have been in dire conditions for days as the shelling of the city continued. Earlier this week, the Russians and the Ukrainians agreed on a humanitarian corridor that led to evacuation of Indian students. The Indian envoy had earlier met Governor of Lviv Maksym Kozytskyi and the Mayor of Lviv City Andriy Sadovyi. During his address at the railway station, envoy lauded the role played by Ukrainian authorities and said, "I have just one request for all of you, this has been a very difficult time for people of Ukraine too. They have helped you, railways has helped you, the border point will help you. Please be patient, and appreciate what they have done". India was in touch with both Kyiv and Moscow for safe evacuation of Indian nationals. The envoy also had a message for parents, in which he said, "We promised to bring every Indian back, this was the PM's direct objective. Get every Indian back. This is what we have done, and I am so happy you will be all with your parents."

'Happiest day of my life': Indian envoy in Ukraine Satpathy to evacuated students from Sumy

Has Joe Biden's oil embargo on Russia fractured western unity? EU-nations say they can't ban Russian oil imports. They say they're too 'dependent' on Moscow for energy supplies. Is Biden's decision then a symbolic move? Watch this report to know more.

Decoding US President Joe Biden's oil embargo on Russia: Will it cripple Putin's war machine?

What is a frozen war? Ukraine war to lead to a frozen conflict? Russia wants peace but on its own terms? Watch this report to know about Russia's ploy to keep the West away.

Ukraine war to lead to a frozen conflict? Russia's ploy to keep the West away

Poland received two patriot surface-to-air missile system from the United States. The deployment is in view of potential threats threats in the area amid Russian invasion of Ukraine.

US deploys missile system in Poland to secure against potential threats in the area

Seven refugee bears from Kyiv were getting used to their new home in the western city of Lviv on March 8, after enduring a 24 hour non-stop journey to safety.

Bears rescued from Russian Invasion

<p>Olena Zelenska, who is the First Lady of Ukraine, condemned death and mass destruction happening in the country ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military operation in eastern Ukraine on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an open letter written to global media on Tuesday, Zelenska has condemned the Kremlin's "mass murder" of civilians, including children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelenska wrote that Russia's invasion of Ukraine "was impossible to believe. On February 24th, we all woke up to the announcement of a Russian invasion."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Tanks crossed the Ukrainian border, planes entered our airspace, missile launchers surrounded our cities. Despite assurances from Kremlin-backed propaganda outlets, who call this a 'special operation' -- it is, in fact, the mass murder of Ukrainian civilians."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-war-crimes-what-are-the-rules-of-war-460670">What are war crimes? What are the rules of war?</a></strong></p>

<p>She highlighted the challenges faced by children calling it "perhaps the most terrifying and devastating". She also named several kids who died.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her letter read: "Eight-year-old Alice... died on the streets of Okhtyrka while her grandfather tried to protect her," she said. "Polina from Kyiv... died in the shelling with her parents."</p>

<p>"14-year-old Arseniy was hit in the head by wreckage, and could not be saved because an ambulance could not get to him on time because of intense fires."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When Russia says that it is 'not waging war against civilians,' I call out the names of these murdered children first."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a></strong></p>

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<p>Zelenska stressed the suffering of civilians as a massive refugee crisis has been triggered after millions have fled their homes to escape the Russian military assault.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "This war is being waged against the civilian population, and not just through shelling. Our roads are flooded with refugees. Look into the eyes of these tired women and children who carry with them the pain and heartache of leaving loved ones and life as they knew it behind."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mentinong other problems related to vital medical treatment, she asked, "How easy is it to inject insulin in the basement? Or to get asthma medication under heavy fire?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Not to mention the thousands of cancer patients whose essential access to chemotherapy and radiation treatment has now been indefinitely delayed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Meet 8-year-old Dima Kasyanov, whose home in Kharkiv was shelled by Russia</strong></p>

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Olena Zelenska, who is the First Lady of Ukraine, condemned death and mass destruction happening in the country ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military operation in eastern Ukraine on February 24.

Olena Zelenska, who is the First Lady of Ukraine, condemned death and mass destruction happening in the country ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a military operation in eastern Ukraine on February 24. In an open letter written to global media on Tuesday, Zelenska has condemned the Kremlin's "mass murder" of civilians, including children. Zelenska wrote that Russia's invasion of Ukraine "was impossible to believe. On February 24th, we all woke up to the announcement of a Russian invasion." "Tanks crossed the Ukrainian border, planes entered our airspace, missile launchers surrounded our cities. Despite assurances from Kremlin-backed propaganda outlets, who call this a 'special operation' -- it is, in fact, the mass murder of Ukrainian civilians." IN PICS | What are war crimes? What are the rules of war? She highlighted the challenges faced by children calling it "perhaps the most terrifying and devastating". She also named several kids who died. Her letter read: "Eight-year-old Alice... died on the streets of Okhtyrka while her grandfather tried to protect her," she said. "Polina from Kyiv... died in the shelling with her parents." "14-year-old Arseniy was hit in the head by wreckage, and could not be saved because an ambulance could not get to him on time because of intense fires." "When Russia says that it is 'not waging war against civilians,' I call out the names of these murdered children first." IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks View this post on Instagram A post shared by Olena Zelenska (@olenazelenska_official) × Zelenska stressed the suffering of civilians as a massive refugee crisis has been triggered after millions have fled their homes to escape the Russian military assault. She said, "This war is being waged against the civilian population, and not just through shelling. Our roads are flooded with refugees. Look into the eyes of these tired women and children who carry with them the pain and heartache of leaving loved ones and life as they knew it behind." Mentinong other problems related to vital medical treatment, she asked, "How easy is it to inject insulin in the basement? Or to get asthma medication under heavy fire?" "Not to mention the thousands of cancer patients whose essential access to chemotherapy and radiation treatment has now been indefinitely delayed." WATCH | Meet 8-year-old Dima Kasyanov, whose home in Kharkiv was shelled by Russia ×

Read Olena Zelenska's letter to the world: First Lady of Ukraine condemns 'mass murder' by Russia

Amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the West has imposed severe sanctions on Russia. The economic isolation is making many firms face difficulty working in Russia.

Russia's economic isolation: Many firms face difficulty working in Russia

Kharkiv has seen some of the heaviest fightings since the war began. The Ukrainian regional police say that 170 civilians had been killed across Kharkiv, including five children. The kids left injured are struggling.

Meet 8-year-old Dima Kasyanov, whose home in Kharkiv was shelled by Russia

The UK's Truss & US' Blinken held a press conference together as the UK urged G7 nations to ban Russian oil imports amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Truss & Blinken hold a press conference as UK urges G7 nations to ban Russian oil imports

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Foreign Ministers of Russia and Ukraine are all set to hold high-level talks in Turkey in a bid to defuse tensions.

Lavrov, Kuleba to hold high-level talks in Turkey amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Russia and Belarus are some of the biggest suppliers of mineral fertilisers. If they continue to create problems for the financing and logistics of the delivery of our goods, then prices will rise and this will affect the final product, food products," Putin said at a televised government meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, western countries continue to put pressure on Russia. The European Union on Thursday (March 10) said that Russia's bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol was a 'war crime'.</p>

<p>"Mariupol is under siege. Russia's shelling of (a) maternity hospital is a heinous war crime," the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Strikes of residential areas from the air and blocks of access of aid convoys by the Russian forces must immediately stop. Safe passage is needed, now," he added. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maternity-hospital-occupied-by-azov-battalion-claims-russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-after-strike-460951">Maternity hospital occupied by Azov battalion, claims Russian foreign minister Lavrov after strike</a></strong></p>

<p>European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "inhumane, cruel and tragic".</p>

<p>"I am convinced that this can be a war crime. We need a full investigation," she tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-may-attack-ukraine-with-chemical-weapons-claims-white-house-460940">Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical weapons, claims White House</a></strong></p>

<p>The children's and maternity hospital in Mariupol was attacked on Wednesday in what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a Russian "war crime", and which sparked global outrage.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday Western sanctions on Moscow for its actions in Ukraine could send global food prices soaring, as Russia was one of the world's main producers of fertiliser, which is essential to global supply chains. "Russia and Belarus are some of the biggest suppliers of mineral fertilisers. If they continue to create problems for the financing and logistics of the delivery of our goods, then prices will rise and this will affect the final product, food products," Putin said at a televised government meeting. Meanwhile, western countries continue to put pressure on Russia. The European Union on Thursday (March 10) said that Russia's bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol was a 'war crime'. "Mariupol is under siege. Russia's shelling of (a) maternity hospital is a heinous war crime," the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote in a tweet. "Strikes of residential areas from the air and blocks of access of aid convoys by the Russian forces must immediately stop. Safe passage is needed, now," he added. Also Read | Maternity hospital occupied by Azov battalion, claims Russian foreign minister Lavrov after strike European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "inhumane, cruel and tragic". "I am convinced that this can be a war crime. We need a full investigation," she tweeted. Also Read | Russia may attack Ukraine with chemical weapons, claims White House The children's and maternity hospital in Mariupol was attacked on Wednesday in what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a Russian "war crime", and which sparked global outrage. (With inputs from agencies)

Sanctions on Russia may increase global food prices, claims Putin

A Russian airstrike on a children's hospital in Ukraine's Mariupol has triggered global condemnation. The attack has injured 17 injured but no deaths confirmed so far.

Day 15 of Russian invasion of Ukraine: President Zelensky demands more fighter jets

US Vice President Kamala Harris visits Warsaw as the US deploys missile system to Poland

The Pentagon rejected a surprise offer from Poland to send MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine via a US airbase. Warsaw made the surprise offer on Tuesday amid repeated appeals from Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky for more warplanes.

US diplomat says Poland 'caught us off guard' with offer to send fighter jets to help Ukraine

Talks between Russia and Ukraine’s foreign ministers in Turkey appeared to have ended in failure. No progress was made on establishing a cease-fire or safe passage for civilians trying to flee the besieged city of Mariupo. Russia says it has alternative buyers for oil and gas.

Russia-Ukraine fail to reach deal on cease-fire; UK sanctions oligarch Abramovich| Latest World News

Since the war began, Ukrainians have been releasing such videos on social media to give comfort to people living in the bunkers. A little girl, Amelia, from Ukraine sang a beautiful rendition of 'Let it Go' from 'Frozen' while hidden away in a Ukrainian bomb shelter.

Ukrainian Girl Sings 'Let It Go' in Bomb Shelter | Latest International News | World News | WION

Ukraine has sounded an alarm over a possible radiation leak from the Chernobyl nuclear power plant after a power outage triggered concerns.

Ukraine sounds an alarm over radiation leak after a power outage at Chernobyl power plant

Children's hospital attacked by Russia in Mariupol, 17 injured but no deaths confirmed so far

<p>The United States has condemned the airstrike at children's hospital in the southeastern city of Mariupol that has wounded at least 17 staff members on Wednesday (March 9). Calling it 'barbaric', the White House slammed the use of force against civilians after an apparent Russian airstrike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters when questioned about the strike, "It is horrifying to see the type of, the barbaric use of military force to go after innocent civilians in a sovereign country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-tank-man-to-snake-island-defenders-brave-stories-of-resistance-by-ukrainians-against-vladimir-putin-460353">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a></strong></p>

<p>Authorities revealed that the attack injured women in labour and left children in the wreckage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also slammed the airstrike and described it as a "war crime". He accused Russia of carrying out genocide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a televised address, Zelensky said, "What kind of country is this, the Russian Federation, which is afraid of hospitals, is afraid of maternity hospitals, and destroys them?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have not done and would never do anything like this war crime in any of the cities of the Donetsk or Lugansk regions, or of any region... because we are people. But are you?" Zelensky asked.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-war-crimes-what-are-the-rules-of-war-460670">What are war crimes? What are the rules of war?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the Mariupol city council, the hospital had been hit several times. The officials said airstrikes that held on maternity and paediatric units, blew out windows, ripped down partition walls and set fire to cars parked outside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being inquired on the same, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Russian forces do not fire on civilian targets." Russia calls its incursion a "special operation" to disarm its neighbour and dislodge leaders it calls "neo-Nazis."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The US says Russia after Ukraine's bio-lab</strong></p>

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The United States has condemned the airstrike at children's hospital in the southeastern city of Mariupol that has wounded at least 17 staff members on Wednesday (March 9).

The United States has condemned the airstrike at children's hospital in the southeastern city of Mariupol that has wounded at least 17 staff members on Wednesday (March 9). Calling it 'barbaric', the White House slammed the use of force against civilians after an apparent Russian airstrike. Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters when questioned about the strike, "It is horrifying to see the type of, the barbaric use of military force to go after innocent civilians in a sovereign country." IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks Authorities revealed that the attack injured women in labour and left children in the wreckage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also slammed the airstrike and described it as a "war crime". He accused Russia of carrying out genocide. In a televised address, Zelensky said, "What kind of country is this, the Russian Federation, which is afraid of hospitals, is afraid of maternity hospitals, and destroys them?" "We have not done and would never do anything like this war crime in any of the cities of the Donetsk or Lugansk regions, or of any region... because we are people. But are you?" Zelensky asked. IN PICS | What are war crimes? What are the rules of war? As per the Mariupol city council, the hospital had been hit several times. The officials said airstrikes that held on maternity and paediatric units, blew out windows, ripped down partition walls and set fire to cars parked outside. On being inquired on the same, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Russian forces do not fire on civilian targets." Russia calls its incursion a "special operation" to disarm its neighbour and dislodge leaders it calls "neo-Nazis." WATCH | The US says Russia after Ukraine's bio-lab ×

US condemns airstrike at children's hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky describes it as 'war crime'

The United States said that it was working with Ukraine to prevent invading Russian forces from seizing biological research material amid concerns. Meanwhile, Russia has claimed that the US is making bio-weapons.

The US says Russia after Ukraine's bio-lab

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has been going on for some days now, and scores of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Armies of both countries have been involved in intense fights since Russian troops entered Ukraine. Now, Russian troops have targeted Kyiv's TV tower.

Russian troops target Kyiv's TV tower, Some news & broadcasts knocked off

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, children have been defenceless victims of war. Israel has evacuated 10 children with life-threatening diseases from Kyiv hospital.

Children with life-threatening diseases from Kyiv hospital evacuated to Israel

Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates leaders have declined to take calls from US President Joe Biden. Biden has been trying to gather international support for Ukraine in a bid to arrest the rising oil prices. Saudi officials have been quite critical of the US and its policy in the Gulf amid the deteriorating relationship under the Biden administration.

US hunts for alternative oil supply as sanctions against Russia's oil sparks price rise

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p>The son of a British lawmaker Helen Grant is part of the country's ex-servicemen group that has arrived in war-torn Ukraine to fight the Russian invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thirty-year-old Ben Grant served for five years as a Royal Marines Commando. The Guardian reported that he is among seven British former soldiers who arrived in Ukraine over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At Lviv railway station in Ukraine, he told the media outlet: "I haven't been sent, nothing to do with the government, nothing to do with my mother. Just wanna make that clear, completely off my own back, I decided to do this."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-tanks-or-40-ton-iron-freezers-freezing-temperatures-might-help-ukraine-to-resist-putins-army-460975">Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army</a></strong></p>

<p>Grant, who is a father of three, said he had not informed his mother before going, following a stint working in Iraq as a private security contractor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "I didn’t even tell my mum, but it is what it is. I thought I am a father of three, and if that was my kids I know what I would do, I would go and fight."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Grant said, "In total we have another 100 people coming, so this will be really good when they all get here – different backgrounds, some of them are very, very specialist."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said he was undeterred by Russia's warnings that "foreign mercenaries" taken captive by its forces in Ukraine would not be treated as prisoners of war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-tsar-bomba-worlds-most-powerful-nuclear-weapon-of-mass-destruction-460924">Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction</a></strong></p>

<p>"If it comes to me being able to end my life before getting captured, I probably would do that. I mentally prepared myself for that, but let's hope it doesn't come to that," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports of Britons joining the Ukrainian cause emerged despite UK government warnings against joining the war. UK's Foreign Office advice warns against all travel to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Grant's group are ex-servicemen, The Sun newspaper reported that a 19-year-old member of the Coldstream Guards was among up to four missing British soldiers believed to have gone to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Capital Kyiv turns fortress, families flee as Russian troops advance amid invasion of Ukraine</strong></p>

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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 son of a British lawmaker Helen Grant is part of the country's ex-servicemen group that has arrived in war-torn Ukraine to fight the Russian invasion. Thirty-year-old Ben Grant served for five years as a Royal Marines Commando. The Guardian reported that he is among seven British former soldiers who arrived in Ukraine over the weekend. At Lviv railway station in Ukraine, he told the media outlet: "I haven't been sent, nothing to do with the government, nothing to do with my mother. Just wanna make that clear, completely off my own back, I decided to do this." ALSO READ | Russian tanks or '40-ton iron freezers'? Freezing temperatures might help Ukraine to resist Putin's army Grant, who is a father of three, said he had not informed his mother before going, following a stint working in Iraq as a private security contractor. He said, "I didn’t even tell my mum, but it is what it is. I thought I am a father of three, and if that was my kids I know what I would do, I would go and fight." Grant said, "In total we have another 100 people coming, so this will be really good when they all get here – different backgrounds, some of them are very, very specialist." He said he was undeterred by Russia's warnings that "foreign mercenaries" taken captive by its forces in Ukraine would not be treated as prisoners of war. IN PICS | Russia's Tsar bomba: World's most powerful nuclear weapon of mass destruction "If it comes to me being able to end my life before getting captured, I probably would do that. I mentally prepared myself for that, but let's hope it doesn't come to that," he said. The reports of Britons joining the Ukrainian cause emerged despite UK government warnings against joining the war. UK's Foreign Office advice warns against all travel to Ukraine. While Grant's group are ex-servicemen, The Sun newspaper reported that a 19-year-old member of the Coldstream Guards was among up to four missing British soldiers believed to have gone to Ukraine. WATCH | Capital Kyiv turns fortress, families flee as Russian troops advance amid invasion of Ukraine ×

Ben Grant, son of a British Conservative MP, joins Ukrainian fight against Russian invasion: Report

Vice President of United States Kamala Harris is in Poland in order to smooth its relation with its key ally after a recent turbulence over fighter jets. She is currently holding a joint presser with the Polish President, listen in.

Polish Prez, US VP Kamala Harris hold joint presser on ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis

Now after two weeks of Russian invasion into Ukraine, capital Kyiv still holding strong. While Russian troops continue to head towards, the civilians are fleeing from the Kyiv region.

Capital Kyiv turns fortress, families flee as Russian troops advance amid invasion of Ukraine

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