The letter ‘Z’ is the new symbol of war for Russia. It is being sported by athletes and military vehicles, who are carrying out the offensive in Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It also keeps popping up on social media and has also appeared on cars, clothing and signs. It seems to have become a propaganda symbol in Russia to support the invasion of Ukraine. Some people have also compared it to the Nazi 'swastika', which was used in the Second World War.&nbsp;

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On its social media channels, the Kremlin-funded state network RT had also announced just three days after the invasion that it was selling Z merchandise to show support for Russian troops. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-russia-ukraine-conflict-phone-lines-internet-remain-untouched-but-why-460122" hreflang="en">In Russia-Ukraine conflict, phone lines, internet remain untouched. But why?</a>

The mysterious Z-shaped letter was first spotted on Russian tanks and military trucks at the Ukrainian border by experts on February 19. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Just another day in the life of Maria Butina: 
 
Drawing a white "Z" marking on your lapel to show solidarity with the invasion of Ukraine <a href="https://t.co/raYG3kRznT">pic.twitter.com/raYG3kRznT</a>
— Francis Scarr (@francska1) <a href="https://twitter.com/francska1/status/1499289678868058112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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When Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, more military hardware could be seen emblazoned with Zs and other letters like O, X, A and V. &nbsp;

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This comes as letter Z does not exist in the Cyrillic Russian alphabet. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-poutine-not-putin-classic-delicacy-falls-victim-to-russia-ukraine-conflict-goes-off-menu-459877" hreflang="en">It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu</a>

So, why the letter ‘Z’? Several military experts have come up with many theories to find a valid answer to this question. &nbsp;

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It found a lot of supporters. Many Russians are putting "Z" on their cars - that's totally voluntary and to my best knowledge nobody's forcing them <a href="https://t.co/sanIdE1rwE">pic.twitter.com/sanIdE1rwE</a>
— Kamil Galeev (@kamilkazani) <a href="https://twitter.com/kamilkazani/status/1500496406209089538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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One of them is that it could have been done in a bid to avoid 'friendly fire' as Russian and Ukraine army tanks look same. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> Russian missiles and equipment ready for a new attack were spotted in occupied Crimea. Almost all license plates are hidden, with their distinctive signs in the form of the letter "Z" on board <a href="https://t.co/YcQSmoQMMj">pic.twitter.com/YcQSmoQMMj</a>
— Hanna Liubakova (@HannaLiubakova) <a href="https://twitter.com/HannaLiubakova/status/1500840850875686912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Instagram channel, the Russian defense ministry said that Z meant Za pobedu (“for victory”) and V stood for “power of truth”. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The letter ‘Z’ is the new symbol of war for Russia. It is being sported by athletes and military vehicles, who are carrying out the offensive in Ukraine. It also keeps popping up on social media and has also appeared on cars, clothing and signs.

The letter ‘Z’ is the new symbol of war for Russia. It is being sported by athletes and military vehicles, who are carrying out the offensive in Ukraine. It also keeps popping up on social media and has also appeared on cars, clothing and signs. It seems to have become a propaganda symbol in Russia to support the invasion of Ukraine. Some people have also compared it to the Nazi 'swastika', which was used in the Second World War. On its social media channels, the Kremlin-funded state network RT had also announced just three days after the invasion that it was selling Z merchandise to show support for Russian troops. Also Read: In Russia-Ukraine conflict, phone lines, internet remain untouched. But why? The mysterious Z-shaped letter was first spotted on Russian tanks and military trucks at the Ukrainian border by experts on February 19. Just another day in the life of Maria Butina: Drawing a white "Z" marking on your lapel to show solidarity with the invasion of Ukraine pic.twitter.com/raYG3kRznT — Francis Scarr (@francska1) March 3, 2022 × When Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, more military hardware could be seen emblazoned with Zs and other letters like O, X, A and V. This comes as letter Z does not exist in the Cyrillic Russian alphabet. Also Read: It’s Poutine, not Putin: Classic delicacy falls victim to Russia-Ukraine conflict, goes off menu So, why the letter ‘Z’? Several military experts have come up with many theories to find a valid answer to this question. It found a lot of supporters. Many Russians are putting "Z" on their cars - that's totally voluntary and to my best knowledge nobody's forcing them pic.twitter.com/sanIdE1rwE — Kamil Galeev (@kamilkazani) March 6, 2022 × One of them is that it could have been done in a bid to avoid 'friendly fire' as Russian and Ukraine army tanks look same. #Ukraine Russian missiles and equipment ready for a new attack were spotted in occupied Crimea. Almost all license plates are hidden, with their distinctive signs in the form of the letter "Z" on board pic.twitter.com/YcQSmoQMMj — Hanna Liubakova (@HannaLiubakova) March 7, 2022 × On Instagram channel, the Russian defense ministry said that Z meant Za pobedu (“for victory”) and V stood for “power of truth”. (With inputs from agencies)

Explainer: Letter 'Z' turns symbol to show support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. What does it mean?

From chef to IT expert, Ukrainian men began to take crash courses in fighting, fearing that Russia might launch an assault on their beloved country anytime. WION tells you more.

Ukrainian men take crash courses in fighting

The assault on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Sumy and Mariupol continues as the Russian invasion of Ukraine enters day 13. The proposed humanitarian corridor failed on Monday.

Humanitarian corridors failed on Monday: 13 people killed in shelling in the town of Marakiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Moscow of cynicism ascertaining how Russian troops destroyed buses meant to evacuate civilians from combat zones. Despite announcing a local ceasefire in multiple Ukrainian cities. However, the Ukrainian leader said that Ukraine will still continue to negotiate a Peace Deal with Russia.

Ukrainian President has accused Moscow of Cynicism

Ukraine and Russia made tentative progress in talks but failed to reach a deal on creating "humanitarian corridors" from pummelled cities. Moscow proposes a new ceasefire, which Kyiv has yet to accept.

Humanitarian Corridors Fail: Shelling continues despite offers of safe passage

Oil prices continue to surge as Western allies of Ukraine battled with Russia over oil import. In the latest Russia has threatened to close its main gas pipeline to Germany.

Ukraine war puts oil market in turmoil: Russia threatens Europe's gas supplies

In the latest Russia has threatened to close its main gas pipeline to Europe via the Nord Stream 1 pipeline as part of its response to sanctions imposed over the invasion of Ukraine, a move that could heighten the turmoil in energy markets and drive consumer prices even higher.

Russia threatens Europe's gas supplies, oil prices hit 14-year high

The Russian invasion of Ukraine pushed thousands of people out of their homes. Millions have been forced to flee Ukraine and seek shelter in neighboring countries. These refugees are now calling for international support to help end the war.

Russian invasion fuels refugee crisis: 1.7 MN people have fled Ukraine

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 Russian military claims to have uncovered 30 biological laboratories in Ukraine.

Igor Kirillov, the chief of the Russian Armed Forces' radiation, chemical, and biological defence, told reporters that the laboratories were reportedly involved in biological weapons production.&nbsp;

"The Russian Defense Ministry has repeatedly drawn attention to the military biological programs that are being implemented by the Pentagon in post-Soviet countries, including on the territory of Ukraine, where a network of more than 30 biological laboratories has been formed, which can be divided into research and sanitary-epidemiological ones," Kirillov said.

The Pentagon's Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is the project's customer, and a corporation linked with the military department, notably Black and Veatch, is involved in project implementation, he stated. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theyre-easy-as-theyre-poor-brazil-politicians-remarks-on-ukrainian-women-go-viral-460164">Also read | 'They're easy as they're poor': Brazil politician's remarks on Ukrainian women go viral</a> 
 
Kirillov noted that the work is being done in three primary areas.

The first is, according to the Pentagon, the monitoring of the biological situation in the proposed areas for the deployment of military contingents from NATO member states.

The second is the collecting of harmful microbe strains and their transfer to the United States.

According to him, the third direction is research into prospective biological weapons agents that are peculiar to a given place, have natural foci, and may be transmitted to humans.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-the-f-are-you-doing-video-of-ukrainian-woman-confronting-russian-soldiers-goes-viral-456590">Also read | ‘What the f*** are you doing’: Video of Ukrainian woman confronting Russian soldiers goes viral</a>

Kirillov gave the following example: since 2021, the Pentagon has been implementing the project "Diagnostics, Surveillance and Prevention of Zoonotic Diseases in the Armed Forces of Ukraine" with a total funding of $11.8 million; in 2020-2021, the German Defense Ministry conducted a study of pathogens of the Congo-Crimean hemorrhagic disease in Ukraine. fever, leptospirosis, meningitis, hantaviruses as part of the Ukrainian-German initiative to ensure biological security at the external borders of the European Union.

Under the pretext of testing means for the treatment and prevention of the coronavirus infection, several thousand samples of serum from patients, primarily those belonging to the Slavic ethnic group, were taken from Ukraine to the Walter Reed Research Institute of the US Army, he added.

(With inputs from Sputnik News)

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 Russian military claims to have uncovered 30 biological laboratories in Ukraine. Igor Kirillov, the chief of the Russian Armed Forces' radiation, chemical, and biological defence, told reporters that the laboratories were reportedly involved in biological weapons production. "The Russian Defense Ministry has repeatedly drawn attention to the military biological programs that are being implemented by the Pentagon in post-Soviet countries, including on the territory of Ukraine, where a network of more than 30 biological laboratories has been formed, which can be divided into research and sanitary-epidemiological ones," Kirillov said. The Pentagon's Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is the project's customer, and a corporation linked with the military department, notably Black and Veatch, is involved in project implementation, he stated. Also read | 'They're easy as they're poor': Brazil politician's remarks on Ukrainian women go viral Kirillov noted that the work is being done in three primary areas. The first is, according to the Pentagon, the monitoring of the biological situation in the proposed areas for the deployment of military contingents from NATO member states. The second is the collecting of harmful microbe strains and their transfer to the United States. According to him, the third direction is research into prospective biological weapons agents that are peculiar to a given place, have natural foci, and may be transmitted to humans. Also read | ‘What the f*** are you doing’: Video of Ukrainian woman confronting Russian soldiers goes viral Kirillov gave the following example: since 2021, the Pentagon has been implementing the project "Diagnostics, Surveillance and Prevention of Zoonotic Diseases in the Armed Forces of Ukraine" with a total funding of $11.8 million; in 2020-2021, the German Defense Ministry conducted a study of pathogens of the Congo-Crimean hemorrhagic disease in Ukraine. fever, leptospirosis, meningitis, hantaviruses as part of the Ukrainian-German initiative to ensure biological security at the external borders of the European Union. Under the pretext of testing means for the treatment and prevention of the coronavirus infection, several thousand samples of serum from patients, primarily those belonging to the Slavic ethnic group, were taken from Ukraine to the Walter Reed Research Institute of the US Army, he added. (With inputs from Sputnik News)

Found 30 biological labs in Ukraine, possibly for bioweapons, claim Russian forces

FIFA on Monday announced that it will suspend the contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian and Russian clubs for the rest of the 2021-22 season.

Concerning the situation in Ukraine, in order to provide players and coaches with the opportunity to work and receive a salary, and to protect Ukrainian clubs, unless the parties to the relevant contract explicitly agree otherwise, all employment contracts of foreign players and coaches with clubs affiliated to the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) will be deemed automatically suspended until the end of the season in Ukraine (30 June 2022), without the need for any action from the parties to this effect.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpools-juergen-klopp-warns-against-complacency-ahead-of-inter-second-leg-459958">Champions League: Liverpool's Juergen Klopp warns against complacency ahead of Inter second leg</a>

In order to facilitate the departure of foreign players and coaches from Russia, in the event that clubs affiliated to the Football Union of Russia (FUR) do not reach a mutual agreement with their respective foreign players and coaches before or on March 10, 2022 and unless otherwise agreed in writing, the foreign players and coaches will have the right to unilaterally suspend their employment contracts with the FUR-affiliated clubs in question until the end of the season in Russia (30 June 2022).

The suspension of a contract as per the paragraphs above will mean that players and coaches will be considered "out of contract" until June 30, 2022 and will therefore be at liberty to sign a contract with another club without facing consequences of any kind.

"Following the escalation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has led to an ongoing and distressing humanitarian crisis, the Bureau of the FIFA Council has decided - in coordination with UEFA and after consultation with various stakeholders - to temporarily amend the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP) in order to provide legal certainty and clarity on a number of matters," FIFA in a statement said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-spanish-defenders-cesar-azpilicueta-marcos-alonso-resume-training-after-injury-illness-460155">Chelsea's Spanish defenders Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso resume training after injury, illness</a>

Furthermore, in order to provide flexibility to players whose registration was with the UAF or the FUR and who have left or may be intending to leave the territory of Ukraine or Russia as a consequence of the war in Ukraine, foreign players whose previous registration was with the UAF or the FUR will be allowed to be registered even if the registration period is closed at the association of the club with which they conclude a new contract.

In order for this exception to be applicable and to protect the integrity of competitions, the registration with the new club needs to occur before or on April 7, 2022.

To further protect the integrity of competitions, clubs are entitled to register a maximum of two players who have benefited from the exception.

FIFA on Monday announced that it will suspend the contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian and Russian clubs for the rest of the 2021-22 season. Concerning the situation in Ukraine, in order to provide players and coaches with the opportunity to work and receive a salary, and to protect Ukrainian clubs, unless the parties to the relevant contract explicitly agree otherwise, all employment contracts of foreign players and coaches with clubs affiliated to the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) will be deemed automatically suspended until the end of the season in Ukraine (30 June 2022), without the need for any action from the parties to this effect.

FIFA on Monday announced that it will suspend the contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian and Russian clubs for the rest of the 2021-22 season. Concerning the situation in Ukraine, in order to provide players and coaches with the opportunity to work and receive a salary, and to protect Ukrainian clubs, unless the parties to the relevant contract explicitly agree otherwise, all employment contracts of foreign players and coaches with clubs affiliated to the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) will be deemed automatically suspended until the end of the season in Ukraine (30 June 2022), without the need for any action from the parties to this effect. ALSO READ: Champions League: Liverpool's Juergen Klopp warns against complacency ahead of Inter second leg In order to facilitate the departure of foreign players and coaches from Russia, in the event that clubs affiliated to the Football Union of Russia (FUR) do not reach a mutual agreement with their respective foreign players and coaches before or on March 10, 2022 and unless otherwise agreed in writing, the foreign players and coaches will have the right to unilaterally suspend their employment contracts with the FUR-affiliated clubs in question until the end of the season in Russia (30 June 2022). The suspension of a contract as per the paragraphs above will mean that players and coaches will be considered "out of contract" until June 30, 2022 and will therefore be at liberty to sign a contract with another club without facing consequences of any kind. "Following the escalation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has led to an ongoing and distressing humanitarian crisis, the Bureau of the FIFA Council has decided - in coordination with UEFA and after consultation with various stakeholders - to temporarily amend the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP) in order to provide legal certainty and clarity on a number of matters," FIFA in a statement said. ALSO READ: Chelsea's Spanish defenders Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso resume training after injury, illness Furthermore, in order to provide flexibility to players whose registration was with the UAF or the FUR and who have left or may be intending to leave the territory of Ukraine or Russia as a consequence of the war in Ukraine, foreign players whose previous registration was with the UAF or the FUR will be allowed to be registered even if the registration period is closed at the association of the club with which they conclude a new contract. In order for this exception to be applicable and to protect the integrity of competitions, the registration with the new club needs to occur before or on April 7, 2022. To further protect the integrity of competitions, clubs are entitled to register a maximum of two players who have benefited from the exception.

FIFA to suspend contracts of foreign players currently tied to Ukrainian, Russian clubs

The family of Sainikhesh Ravichandran, an Indian student who has joined a pro-Ukrainian militia—Georgian National Legion—are extremely worried and anguished.

Hailing from Coimbatore in southern Tamil Nadu state, Sainikhesh—a student at the National Aerospace University in Ukraine's Kharkiv—is said to have volunteered to join the forces that are fighting against Russia.

When contacted his mother, Jhansi Lakshmi told WION that she last spoke to him around five days ago. However, she added that their family was extremely anguished and not in a position to divulge any further.

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This is the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coimbatore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coimbatore</a> residence of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indianstudentsinukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indianstudentsinukraine</a> Sainikhesh Ravichandran, who joined the militia to fight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussianWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussianWar</a> 
 
Anguished, the boy's mother told me that she last spoke to him 5 days ago... 
 
Family is deeply pained, troubled..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/kgeLG0RfGh">pic.twitter.com/kgeLG0RfGh</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1501105670573420547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, Indian intelligence officials had recently visited the family’s residence near Thudiyalur in western Coimbatore district and apprised them of the boy having&nbsp;joined the Ukraine forces.

It is being claimed that the 21-year-old had been keen to join the Indian armed forces when he was in his home country. Even his social media profile shows pictures of personnel dressed in military combat gear, brandishing an assault rifle.

There are also other pictures doing the rounds on social media purportedly showing the Indian student posing with the Ukrainian forces, all dressed in military combat gear.

However, WION could not independently verify the authenticity of the&nbsp;pictures of the boy in military fatigues.

This development comes at a time when India continues to evacuate thousands of its students from war-torn Ukraine and its contiguous nations via special flights operated by both private carriers and the Indian Air Force.

The family of Sainikhesh Ravichandran, an Indian student who has joined a pro-Ukrainian militia—Georgian National Legion—are extremely worried and anguished. Hailing from Coimbatore in southern Tamil Nadu state, Sainikhesh—a student at the National Aerospace University in Ukraine's Kharkiv—is said to have volunteered to join the forces that are fighting against Russia.

The family of Sainikhesh Ravichandran, an Indian student who has joined a pro-Ukrainian militia—Georgian National Legion—are extremely worried and anguished. Hailing from Coimbatore in southern Tamil Nadu state, Sainikhesh—a student at the National Aerospace University in Ukraine's Kharkiv—is said to have volunteered to join the forces that are fighting against Russia. When contacted his mother, Jhansi Lakshmi told WION that she last spoke to him around five days ago. However, she added that their family was extremely anguished and not in a position to divulge any further. This is the #Coimbatore residence of the #indianstudentsinukraine Sainikhesh Ravichandran, who joined the militia to fight #Russia #UkraineRussianWar Anguished, the boy's mother told me that she last spoke to him 5 days ago... Family is deeply pained, troubled..#Ukraine pic.twitter.com/kgeLG0RfGh — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 8, 2022 × According to reports, Indian intelligence officials had recently visited the family’s residence near Thudiyalur in western Coimbatore district and apprised them of the boy having joined the Ukraine forces. It is being claimed that the 21-year-old had been keen to join the Indian armed forces when he was in his home country. Even his social media profile shows pictures of personnel dressed in military combat gear, brandishing an assault rifle. There are also other pictures doing the rounds on social media purportedly showing the Indian student posing with the Ukrainian forces, all dressed in military combat gear. However, WION could not independently verify the authenticity of the pictures of the boy in military fatigues. This development comes at a time when India continues to evacuate thousands of its students from war-torn Ukraine and its contiguous nations via special flights operated by both private carriers and the Indian Air Force.

‘Spoke to him 5 days ago’, mother of Indian student who joined Ukraine militia tells WION

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has intensified its attack. In the latest, Russian airstrikes hit apartment buildings in Sumy, claiming at least 9 lives, including that of 2 children.

Russian airstrikes hit apartment buildings in Sumy, at least 9 including 2 children killed

It is day 13 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.

WION ground report from Kyiv: Carnage continues on day 13 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Ukraine President Zelensky will address the UK's house of commons virtually today. He is likely to urge for more war weapons amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine President Zelensky to address UK lawmakers today & likely to urge for more war weapons

Since the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, several civilian and military establishments in the eastern European nation have been hit badly. &nbsp;

But the phone lines and internet are still working. Is it intentional or has Russia failed to tear it down? &nbsp;

Cybersecurity experts feel that Moscow has three good reasons to not disable phone and data networks. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-allow-civilians-to-leave-russia-proposes-humanitarian-corridors-in-five-ukrainian-cities-say-reports-460072">Russia proposes humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities, say reports</a>

The first is that the Russian intelligence services can eavesdrop on phone calls and emails. It can also gather geolocation and other metadata, which can prove useful in the invasion. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Russian army is also using Ukrainian commercial networks to communicate can be the second reason. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The invading army doesn’t want to destroy infrastructure that they will need if they conquer Ukraine is surely the third one. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-belarusian-hackers-target-ukraine-european-allies-through-phishing-campaigns-says-google-460083">Russian, Belarusian hackers target Ukraine, European allies, says Google</a>

The continuance of phone lines and internet seems to have not worked in Russia’s favour till now as the details of the invasion have fuelled the world with anger and led to protests and sanctions. &nbsp;

“If [Russian forces] can do localised shutdowns of telecommunications, they’ll do it. But in general, they’ll want to keep the phones working in Kyiv because they can listen in,” said James Lewis, senior vice president and director of the strategic technologies programme at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“If you want to own the house, you’re not going to burn it down,” Lewis added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Since the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, several civilian and military establishments in the eastern European nation have been hit badly. But the phone lines and internet are still working.

Since the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, several civilian and military establishments in the eastern European nation have been hit badly. But the phone lines and internet are still working. Is it intentional or has Russia failed to tear it down? Cybersecurity experts feel that Moscow has three good reasons to not disable phone and data networks. Also Read: Russia proposes humanitarian corridors in five Ukrainian cities, say reports The first is that the Russian intelligence services can eavesdrop on phone calls and emails. It can also gather geolocation and other metadata, which can prove useful in the invasion. The Russian army is also using Ukrainian commercial networks to communicate can be the second reason. The invading army doesn’t want to destroy infrastructure that they will need if they conquer Ukraine is surely the third one. Also Read: Russian, Belarusian hackers target Ukraine, European allies, says Google The continuance of phone lines and internet seems to have not worked in Russia’s favour till now as the details of the invasion have fuelled the world with anger and led to protests and sanctions. “If [Russian forces] can do localised shutdowns of telecommunications, they’ll do it. But in general, they’ll want to keep the phones working in Kyiv because they can listen in,” said James Lewis, senior vice president and director of the strategic technologies programme at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “If you want to own the house, you’re not going to burn it down,” Lewis added. (With inputs from agencies)

In Russia-Ukraine conflict, phone lines, internet remain untouched. But why?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone today. PM Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President in the morning, while with Russian President Putin in the afternoon.&nbsp;

Today's talks come amid the ongoing Russian offensive of Ukraine and multiple requests by the Ukrainian side, including by Ukraine’s foreign minister for New Delhi to play a more active role.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba had urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reach out to Russian President Putin to stop the ongoing invasion of his country.

ALSO READ&nbsp; |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-not-forgive-we-will-not-forget-ukraines-zelensky-says-russian-shelling-plans-deliberate-murder-459697">'We will not forgive. We will not forget': Ukraine's Zelensky says Russian shelling plans 'deliberate murder'</a>

Pointing to the "special relations" between India and Russia, Ukraine foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba in response to WION question said, "All countries who enjoy special relations with India they can appeal to President Putin, PM Modi we call him to continue reaching out to President Putin and explaining to him that this war is against interest of all".&nbsp;

So far Indian PM Modi has spoken to the Russian President two times, and Ukraine President once. During his first conversation with President Putin on February 24, PM appealed for cessation of violence and return to the path of diplomatic negotiations.&nbsp;

It was on February 24, Russia began the invasion of Ukraine. While the safety of Indian nationals has been the top focus of the talks, PM Modi has during the talks has emphasized "honest and sincere dialogue" according to the readout by the Indian side. The second conversation happened last week.&nbsp;

But for India, the biggest worry remains the around 500+ Indian students stranded in Sumy. India has launched 'Operation Ganga' to evacuate its nationals from the war-torn country who have crossed over to neighbouring countries like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-czech-hedgehogs-homemade-obstacles-that-can-destroy-russian-tanks-459254">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a>

Under 'Operation Ganga', so far 76 Flights have brought over 15920 Indians back to India. Out of these 76 flights, 13 flights landed in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

In all, over 21000 Indians came out of Ukraine since the issuance of the advisory in January 2022. Out of these, 19920 Indians have already reached India.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Zelensky urges people to continue resistance as Russia builds military columns near Kyiv

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone today. PM Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President in the morning, while with Russian President Putin in the afternoon.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the phone today. PM Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President in the morning, while with Russian President Putin in the afternoon. Today's talks come amid the ongoing Russian offensive of Ukraine and multiple requests by the Ukrainian side, including by Ukraine’s foreign minister for New Delhi to play a more active role. Over the weekend, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba had urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reach out to Russian President Putin to stop the ongoing invasion of his country. ALSO READ | 'We will not forgive. We will not forget': Ukraine's Zelensky says Russian shelling plans 'deliberate murder' Pointing to the "special relations" between India and Russia, Ukraine foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba in response to WION question said, "All countries who enjoy special relations with India they can appeal to President Putin, PM Modi we call him to continue reaching out to President Putin and explaining to him that this war is against interest of all". So far Indian PM Modi has spoken to the Russian President two times, and Ukraine President once. During his first conversation with President Putin on February 24, PM appealed for cessation of violence and return to the path of diplomatic negotiations. It was on February 24, Russia began the invasion of Ukraine. While the safety of Indian nationals has been the top focus of the talks, PM Modi has during the talks has emphasized "honest and sincere dialogue" according to the readout by the Indian side. The second conversation happened last week. But for India, the biggest worry remains the around 500+ Indian students stranded in Sumy. India has launched 'Operation Ganga' to evacuate its nationals from the war-torn country who have crossed over to neighbouring countries like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova. IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks Under 'Operation Ganga', so far 76 Flights have brought over 15920 Indians back to India. Out of these 76 flights, 13 flights landed in the last 24 hours. In all, over 21000 Indians came out of Ukraine since the issuance of the advisory in January 2022. Out of these, 19920 Indians have already reached India. WATCH | Zelensky urges people to continue resistance as Russia builds military columns near Kyiv ×

Indian PM Modi to hold talks with Ukraine President, Russian President today

It is day 12 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. Now, Putin has set conditions for a ceasefire.

Putin sets conditions for a ceasefire as Russia builds military column near Kyiv

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, President Zelensky held a conversation with Indian PM Narendra Modi. The outreach came after requests from Kyiv.

Indian PM Modi speaks to Ukraine President Zelensky

It is day 12 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. Now, Ukraine says that 8 Russian rockets destroyed airport in Vinnytsia.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russian airstrike destroys airport in Vinnytsia

Harjot Singh, an Indian student who was hospitalised after he was shot in the capital city of Ukraine, has safely crossed the border and entered Poland amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;

The India-based news agency ANI reported that Singh is among the stranded Indian nationals&nbsp;being brought back. His flight is expected to land in India by Monday evening as part of the government's evacuation programme 'Operation Ganga'.&nbsp;

Puneet Singh Chandhok, the President of the Indian World Forum said, "Harjot Singh has crossed the border and entered Poland. Indian diplomats were present with him. He has been shifted into an ambulance provided by Polish RedCross on the border."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-to-hold-talks-with-ukraine-president-russian-president-today-459732">Indian PM Modi to hold talks with Ukraine President, Russian President today</a>

Previously, the student had released the video claiming that he didn't receive support from the Indian embassy. Responding to his video, India's ministry of external affairs noted that the government of India "will be bearing expenses for Harjot Singh's medical treatment" (in Kyiv, Ukraine).&nbsp;

In a video that was released later, Harjot can be seen speaking about his journey and informed that he is en route to the Poland border.&nbsp;

"Now we are going to the Poland border... everything is okay... the journey till now had been very hard, but I was motivated that I have to return to India somehow," he said in an ambulance.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-are-czech-hedgehogs-homemade-obstacles-that-can-destroy-russian-tanks-459254">What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks</a>

Harjot also thanked the Indian officials for the assistance and support, saying, "It is due to all your support that I am here today, thank you very much to everyone".&nbsp;

The student also talked about how he had sustained the injuries. He told the news agency that he was injured when bullets were fired at the car in which he was travelling.&nbsp;

He said, "This is February 27 incident. We were three people in a cab on our way to the third checkpoint where we were told to return due to security reasons. While coming back, multiple bullets were fired at our car due to which I sustained multiple bullet injuries."&nbsp;

The Indian student said he regained consciousness at 10 pm on the night of March 2. The Indian student pursuing studies in Information Technology said that he has got a new life.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President Zelensky and Russian President Putin amid the government's ramped up efforts to evacuate its citizens from war-torn Ukraine.&nbsp;

Since February 22, the Indian government&nbsp;has so far evacuated nearly 16,000 nationals from Ukraine, the government said on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;Asian stocks tumble in morning trade as the risk of stagflationary shock for world markets continue

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(With inputs from agencies)

Harjot Singh, an Indian student who was hospitalised after he was shot in the capital city of Ukraine, has safely crossed the border and entered Poland amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Harjot Singh, an Indian student who was hospitalised after he was shot in the capital city of Ukraine, has safely crossed the border and entered Poland amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict. The India-based news agency ANI reported that Singh is among the stranded Indian nationals being brought back. His flight is expected to land in India by Monday evening as part of the government's evacuation programme 'Operation Ganga'. Puneet Singh Chandhok, the President of the Indian World Forum said, "Harjot Singh has crossed the border and entered Poland. Indian diplomats were present with him. He has been shifted into an ambulance provided by Polish RedCross on the border." ALSO READ | Indian PM Modi to hold talks with Ukraine President, Russian President today Previously, the student had released the video claiming that he didn't receive support from the Indian embassy. Responding to his video, India's ministry of external affairs noted that the government of India "will be bearing expenses for Harjot Singh's medical treatment" (in Kyiv, Ukraine). In a video that was released later, Harjot can be seen speaking about his journey and informed that he is en route to the Poland border. "Now we are going to the Poland border... everything is okay... the journey till now had been very hard, but I was motivated that I have to return to India somehow," he said in an ambulance. IN PICS | What are Czech hedgehogs?: Homemade obstacles that can destroy Russian tanks Harjot also thanked the Indian officials for the assistance and support, saying, "It is due to all your support that I am here today, thank you very much to everyone". The student also talked about how he had sustained the injuries. He told the news agency that he was injured when bullets were fired at the car in which he was travelling. He said, "This is February 27 incident. We were three people in a cab on our way to the third checkpoint where we were told to return due to security reasons. While coming back, multiple bullets were fired at our car due to which I sustained multiple bullet injuries." The Indian student said he regained consciousness at 10 pm on the night of March 2. The Indian student pursuing studies in Information Technology said that he has got a new life. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks with Ukraine President Zelensky and Russian President Putin amid the government's ramped up efforts to evacuate its citizens from war-torn Ukraine. Since February 22, the Indian government has so far evacuated nearly 16,000 nationals from Ukraine, the government said on Sunday. ALSO READ | Asian stocks tumble in morning trade as the risk of stagflationary shock for world markets continue × (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine under attack: Indian student shot at in Kyiv crosses into Poland, thanks officials

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid met on Monday in order to discuss Russian invasion of Ukraine and possibility of a new nuclear deal with Iran.

Lapid flew to Riga, Latvia to connect with Washington's top diplomat two days after Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett travelled to Moscow for a three-hour meeting with President Vladimir Putin, hoping to find a way to end the bloodshed in Ukraine.

"The way to stop the war is to negotiate," Lapid said at the start of the meeting in a Riga hotel.

"Israel is speaking with both sides, both with Russia and Ukraine, and we're working in full coordination with our greatest ally the United States and with our European partners," he said.

Blinken thanked Israel for its effort to help find an end to the war.

On Sunday Bennett said Israel would press on with diplomatic efforts "as needed," despite Russia continuing its attack 12 days after its forces invaded Ukraine without provocation.

"Even if the chance is not great -- as soon as there is even a small opening, and we have access to all sides and the capability -- I see this as our moral obligation to make every effort," he said.

Lapid also said he would talk with Blinken about Israel's interests in the possible revival of the 2015 nuclear agreement aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.

"We're united and committed to the proposition that Iran must never attain a nuclear weapon," Blinken assured his Israeli counterpart.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid met on Monday in order to discuss Russian invasion of Ukraine and possibility of a new nuclear deal with Iran.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid met on Monday in order to discuss Russian invasion of Ukraine and possibility of a new nuclear deal with Iran. Lapid flew to Riga, Latvia to connect with Washington's top diplomat two days after Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett travelled to Moscow for a three-hour meeting with President Vladimir Putin, hoping to find a way to end the bloodshed in Ukraine. "The way to stop the war is to negotiate," Lapid said at the start of the meeting in a Riga hotel. "Israel is speaking with both sides, both with Russia and Ukraine, and we're working in full coordination with our greatest ally the United States and with our European partners," he said. Blinken thanked Israel for its effort to help find an end to the war. On Sunday Bennett said Israel would press on with diplomatic efforts "as needed," despite Russia continuing its attack 12 days after its forces invaded Ukraine without provocation. "Even if the chance is not great -- as soon as there is even a small opening, and we have access to all sides and the capability -- I see this as our moral obligation to make every effort," he said. Lapid also said he would talk with Blinken about Israel's interests in the possible revival of the 2015 nuclear agreement aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. "We're united and committed to the proposition that Iran must never attain a nuclear weapon," Blinken assured his Israeli counterpart. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Israel go in high-level diplomatic huddle on Ukraine, Iran

Over the past week, in response to the gut-wrenching scenes in Ukraine, Western unity has been impressive and heartening. I know from my near-daily conversations with President Volodymyr Zelensky that this has provided Ukrainians with some comfort in their hour of need.

Never in my life have I seen an international crisis where the dividing line between right and wrong has been so stark, as the Russian war machine unleashes its fury on a proud democracy. Russia’s reckless attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant reminds us just how grave the stakes are for everyone. More than one million people have fled the violence, toward an uncertain future.

President Biden has displayed great leadership, consulting and convening allies, exposing the lie that America’s commitment to Europe is somehow diminished. The European Union has undertaken a remarkable effort to align behind severe sanctions on Russia. Dozens of European countries are sending defensive equipment to Ukraine’s armed forces. But have we done enough for Ukraine? The honest answer is no.

Vladimir Putin’s act of aggression must fail and be seen to fail. We must not allow anyone in the Kremlin to get away with misrepresenting our intentions in order to find ex post facto justification for this war of choice. This is not a NATO conflict, and it will not become one. No ally has sent combat troops to Ukraine. We have no hostility toward the Russian people, and we have no desire to impugn a great nation and a world power. We despair of the decision to send young, innocent Russians into a futile war.

The truth is that Ukraine had no serious prospect of NATO membership in the near future — and we were ready to respond to Russia’s stated security concerns through negotiation. I and many other Western leaders have spoken to Mr. Putin to understand his perspective. The United Kingdom even sent emissaries to Moscow before Russia’s invasion to deal directly with Defense Minister Gen. Sergei Shoigu and the chief of the general staff, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, who are spearheading this awful campaign.

It is now clear diplomacy never had a chance. But it is precisely because of our respect for Russia that we find the actions of the Putin regime so unconscionable. Mr. Putin is attempting the destruction of the very foundation of international relations and the United Nations Charter: the right of nations to decide their own future, free from aggression and fear of invasion. His assault on Ukraine began with a confected pretext and a flagrant violation of international law. It is sinking further into a sordid campaign of war crimes and unthinkable violence against civilians.

Though there can be no comparison with the assault on Ukraine, we in the United Kingdom know something of Mr. Putin’s ruthlessness. Four years ago, we endured the outcome of Russian operatives’ use of chemical weapons against people in Salisbury, England — and our allies rallied to our side. In our defense and foreign policy review, published a year ago, we warned that Russia remained the most acute security threat, and we announced the biggest increase in our defense spending since the end of the Cold War.

We also warned that the world was entering into a period of competition in which authoritarian states would test the mettle of the West in every domain. Last year’s agreement among the United Kingdom, America and Australia to help deploy nuclear submarines for the Australian Navy demonstrated our shared resolve to meet the challenges we face in the Indo-Pacific.

We have failed to learn the lessons of Russian aggression. For too long, we have turned the other cheek. No one can say we were not warned: We saw what Russia did in Georgia in 2008, in Ukraine in 2014 and even on the streets of Salisbury. And I know from speaking to my counterparts on recent visits to Poland and Estonia just how acutely they feel the threat.

It is no longer enough to express warm platitudes about the rules-based international order. We are going to have to actively defend it against a sustained attempt to rewrite the rules by force and other tools, such as economic coercion. We must restore effective deterrence in Europe, where, for too long, the very success of NATO and of America’s security guarantee has bred complacency. What happens in Europe will have profound implications worldwide.

We are pleased to see more nations beginning to grasp this hard reality. In January, the United Kingdom was among a handful of European countries sending defensive aid to Ukraine. Now more than 20 countries are part of that effort. Defense spending is going up, though it will take time for that to translate into capability.

That’s a welcome development, but it is not going to be enough on its own to save Ukraine or keep the flame of freedom alive. Russia has overwhelming force and apparently no regard for the laws of war. We need to prepare now for even darker days ahead.

So we must begin a six-point plan for Ukraine, starting today.

First, we must mobilize an international humanitarian coalition. On Monday, I will meet the leaders of Canada and the Netherlands in London to talk about creating the widest possible coalition to expose the outrages that are taking place in Ukraine. On Tuesday, I will host the leaders of Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic, now on the front line of a refugee crisis. The United Kingdom has 1,000 troops on standby for humanitarian operations, on top of 220 million pounds ($291 million) of aid. We must all work together to establish an immediate cease-fire and allow civilians safe passage, food and medical supplies.

Second, we must do more to help Ukraine to defend itself. More and more nations are willing to provide defensive equipment. We must act quickly to coordinate our efforts to support the government of Ukraine.

Third, we must maximize the economic pressure on Mr. Putin’s regime. We must go further on economic sanctions, expelling every Russian bank from SWIFT and giving our law enforcement agencies unprecedented powers to peel back the facade of dirty Russian money in London. We must go after the oligarchs. So far, the United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on more than 300 elites and entities, including Mr. Putin himself. But these measures will be insufficient unless Europe begins to wean itself off the Russian oil and gas that bankroll Mr. Putin’s war machine.

Fourth, no matter how long it takes, we must prevent any creeping normalization of what Russia does in Ukraine. The lesson from Russia’s invasion of Georgia in 2008 and seizure of Crimea in 2014 is that accepting the results of Russian aggression merely encourages more aggression. We cannot allow the Kremlin to bite off chunks of an independent country and inflict immense human suffering and then creep back into the fold.

Fifth, we should always be open to diplomacy and de-escalation, provided that the government of Ukraine has full agency in any potential settlement. There can be no new Yalta, decided over the heads of the people of Ukraine, by external powers.

Sixth, we must act now to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security. This includes not only bolstering NATO’s eastern flank but also supporting non-NATO European countries that are potentially at risk of Russian aggression, such as Moldova, Georgia and the nations of the western Balkans. And those that participate or enable Russian aggression, such as Belarus, will be subject to maximum sanctions.

Ukrainians have bravely defended their country. It is their valor that has united the international community. We can’t let them down.

Over the past week, in response to the gut-wrenching scenes in Ukraine, Western unity has been impressive and heartening. I know from my near-daily conversations with President Volodymyr Zelensky that this has provided Ukrainians with some comfort in their hour of need.

Over the past week, in response to the gut-wrenching scenes in Ukraine, Western unity has been impressive and heartening. I know from my near-daily conversations with President Volodymyr Zelensky that this has provided Ukrainians with some comfort in their hour of need. Never in my life have I seen an international crisis where the dividing line between right and wrong has been so stark, as the Russian war machine unleashes its fury on a proud democracy. Russia’s reckless attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant reminds us just how grave the stakes are for everyone. More than one million people have fled the violence, toward an uncertain future. President Biden has displayed great leadership, consulting and convening allies, exposing the lie that America’s commitment to Europe is somehow diminished. The European Union has undertaken a remarkable effort to align behind severe sanctions on Russia. Dozens of European countries are sending defensive equipment to Ukraine’s armed forces. But have we done enough for Ukraine? The honest answer is no. Vladimir Putin’s act of aggression must fail and be seen to fail. We must not allow anyone in the Kremlin to get away with misrepresenting our intentions in order to find ex post facto justification for this war of choice. This is not a NATO conflict, and it will not become one. No ally has sent combat troops to Ukraine. We have no hostility toward the Russian people, and we have no desire to impugn a great nation and a world power. We despair of the decision to send young, innocent Russians into a futile war. The truth is that Ukraine had no serious prospect of NATO membership in the near future — and we were ready to respond to Russia’s stated security concerns through negotiation. I and many other Western leaders have spoken to Mr. Putin to understand his perspective. The United Kingdom even sent emissaries to Moscow before Russia’s invasion to deal directly with Defense Minister Gen. Sergei Shoigu and the chief of the general staff, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, who are spearheading this awful campaign. It is now clear diplomacy never had a chance. But it is precisely because of our respect for Russia that we find the actions of the Putin regime so unconscionable. Mr. Putin is attempting the destruction of the very foundation of international relations and the United Nations Charter: the right of nations to decide their own future, free from aggression and fear of invasion. His assault on Ukraine began with a confected pretext and a flagrant violation of international law. It is sinking further into a sordid campaign of war crimes and unthinkable violence against civilians. Though there can be no comparison with the assault on Ukraine, we in the United Kingdom know something of Mr. Putin’s ruthlessness. Four years ago, we endured the outcome of Russian operatives’ use of chemical weapons against people in Salisbury, England — and our allies rallied to our side. In our defense and foreign policy review, published a year ago, we warned that Russia remained the most acute security threat, and we announced the biggest increase in our defense spending since the end of the Cold War. We also warned that the world was entering into a period of competition in which authoritarian states would test the mettle of the West in every domain. Last year’s agreement among the United Kingdom, America and Australia to help deploy nuclear submarines for the Australian Navy demonstrated our shared resolve to meet the challenges we face in the Indo-Pacific. We have failed to learn the lessons of Russian aggression. For too long, we have turned the other cheek. No one can say we were not warned: We saw what Russia did in Georgia in 2008, in Ukraine in 2014 and even on the streets of Salisbury. And I know from speaking to my counterparts on recent visits to Poland and Estonia just how acutely they feel the threat. It is no longer enough to express warm platitudes about the rules-based international order. We are going to have to actively defend it against a sustained attempt to rewrite the rules by force and other tools, such as economic coercion. We must restore effective deterrence in Europe, where, for too long, the very success of NATO and of America’s security guarantee has bred complacency. What happens in Europe will have profound implications worldwide. We are pleased to see more nations beginning to grasp this hard reality. In January, the United Kingdom was among a handful of European countries sending defensive aid to Ukraine. Now more than 20 countries are part of that effort. Defense spending is going up, though it will take time for that to translate into capability. That’s a welcome development, but it is not going to be enough on its own to save Ukraine or keep the flame of freedom alive. Russia has overwhelming force and apparently no regard for the laws of war. We need to prepare now for even darker days ahead. So we must begin a six-point plan for Ukraine, starting today. First, we must mobilize an international humanitarian coalition. On Monday, I will meet the leaders of Canada and the Netherlands in London to talk about creating the widest possible coalition to expose the outrages that are taking place in Ukraine. On Tuesday, I will host the leaders of Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic, now on the front line of a refugee crisis. The United Kingdom has 1,000 troops on standby for humanitarian operations, on top of 220 million pounds ($291 million) of aid. We must all work together to establish an immediate cease-fire and allow civilians safe passage, food and medical supplies. Second, we must do more to help Ukraine to defend itself. More and more nations are willing to provide defensive equipment. We must act quickly to coordinate our efforts to support the government of Ukraine. Third, we must maximize the economic pressure on Mr. Putin’s regime. We must go further on economic sanctions, expelling every Russian bank from SWIFT and giving our law enforcement agencies unprecedented powers to peel back the facade of dirty Russian money in London. We must go after the oligarchs. So far, the United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on more than 300 elites and entities, including Mr. Putin himself. But these measures will be insufficient unless Europe begins to wean itself off the Russian oil and gas that bankroll Mr. Putin’s war machine. Fourth, no matter how long it takes, we must prevent any creeping normalization of what Russia does in Ukraine. The lesson from Russia’s invasion of Georgia in 2008 and seizure of Crimea in 2014 is that accepting the results of Russian aggression merely encourages more aggression. We cannot allow the Kremlin to bite off chunks of an independent country and inflict immense human suffering and then creep back into the fold. Fifth, we should always be open to diplomacy and de-escalation, provided that the government of Ukraine has full agency in any potential settlement. There can be no new Yalta, decided over the heads of the people of Ukraine, by external powers. Sixth, we must act now to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security. This includes not only bolstering NATO’s eastern flank but also supporting non-NATO European countries that are potentially at risk of Russian aggression, such as Moldova, Georgia and the nations of the western Balkans. And those that participate or enable Russian aggression, such as Belarus, will be subject to maximum sanctions. Ukrainians have bravely defended their country. It is their valor that has united the international community. We can’t let them down.

Boris Johnson: 6 steps the West must take to help Ukraine right now

In Lviv, Statues were wrapped in protective sheets as the city prepares for Russian assault amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Statues wrapped in protective sheets in Lviv amid Russian invasion of Ukraine

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 scrambles to deal with sanctions as Rouble hits record low

Crude oil prices rose up sharply amid concerns of a supply crunch even after countries agreed to release oil from reserves around the world. Oil prices surged to highest since 2008

US crude briefly tops $130 per barrel as oil prices surge to highest since 2008

WION is reporting from the frontlines of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Our correspondent Anas Mallick is on ground zero and has documented his train journey as he made his way from the West Ukrainian city of Lviv to the capital Kyiv.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Trains make their way cautiously as Russia advances in Ukraine

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, many global businesses and agencies are quitting the Russian market. However, Chinese firms are staying put in Russia.

Chinese firms staying put in Russia despite exodus from western companies

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, many global businesses and agencies are quitting the Russian market. KPMG and PWC became the latest addition to this wave.

KPMG, PWC to exit Russia amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

It is day 12 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 12 of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: Deadly second week of assault

IAEA raised concerns over nuclear plants in Ukraine. This comes after Russian shelling resulted in a fire incident near Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya nuclear plant.

IAEA: Concerned over nuclear plants in Ukraine amid Russian invasion

It is day 12 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. Several orphanage residents were forced to flee.

Orphanage residents forced to flee as Russian invasion of Ukraine continues

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